The Congress party on Monday intensified its attack on the BJP-RSS, accusing them of orchestrating a conspiracy against Rahul Gandhi. This development follows a former Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) leader’s controversial comments that included a chilling death threat against the Leader of Opposition. Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera highlighted that those losing the ideological battle resort to threats as they perceive a growing support for Gandhi’s vision.
Khera pointed out a remark from Printu Mahadev, the ex-state president of ABVP, who stated during a televised debate that ‘Rahul Gandhi will be shot in the chest.’ According to Khera, this statement exemplifies the BJP’s desperation and need to stifle dissenting voices.
“When the BJP spokesperson makes such ominous threats in a public forum, and no action follows, it sets a dangerous precedent,” remarked Khera. He noted the alarming politicisation of security concerning Gandhi. Previously, the CRPF had leaked information regarding a letter intended for Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, discussing Gandhi’s safety and security concerns.
“This reeks of conspiracy,” Khera insisted, urging the public to question who is behind this orchestrated campaign against Gandhi. He suggested that the BJP cannot tolerate the rising tide of support for Gandhi from Kashmir to Kanyakumari and fears their ideological inadequacy is being exposed.
During a video statement, Khera underscored the party’s stance, declaring that violence would not be tolerated. He stated emphatically, “Your time is up; your theft has been exposed, and you’re responding with threats.” His remarks resonate with the Congress’ ongoing narrative regarding alleged electoral fraud by the BJP, termed ‘vote chori’ by Gandhi.
Khera also took to social media, expressing that when the RSS fails to crush opposing ideologies, their affiliates turn to threats and violence. He likened current threats against Gandhi to historical precedents of violence against dissenters, warning of a resurgence of a toxic atmosphere that promotes hatred and intimidation.
The Congress general secretary K C Venugopal also weighed in on the situation, asserting that the government must act swiftly to address Mahadev’s remarks or face allegations of complicity. Venugopal sent an official letter to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, describing the threats as dangerous for both Gandhi and democratic integrity.
Venugopal voiced the gravity of the situation, stating that Mahadev’s words represent a calculated assault, undermining the safety assurances every citizen deserves. His letter asked, “What does your party stand for? Are you endorsing the politics of intimidation?”
He stressed that the threat was not merely a slip of the tongue but rather a symptom of a politically-charged atmosphere poised for violence against political leaders. Venugopal demanded immediate legal action to ensure that threats against Gandhi are taken seriously, emphasizing that inaction will lead to further normalisation of violence.
“The nation calls for immediate and decisive justice,” he warned, highlighting the collective demand for clarity on the government’s stance regarding threats posed to the Leader of Opposition.
As tensions mount, the Congress party insists that the safety of its leaders reflects the health of India’s democracy. Allegations against the BJP-RSS have reached a critical point, raising urgent questions about political accountability and the responsibilities of governing bodies to protect elected officials.
