TFP Bureau, Raipur, July 3, 2024 l: In a press conference, former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel praised Rahul Gandhi’s speech as the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, noting its impact both nationally and globally. Baghel highlighted that the speech compelled the Prime Minister and several key ministers to respond, underscoring its significance.
Addressing allegations against Rahul Gandhi, Baghel clarified that Gandhi did not call Hindus violent. He accused the BJP and RSS of propagating violence and intimidation, contrary to Congress’s values of non-violence and brotherhood.
“Rahul Gandhi showed images of Lord Shiva and Guru Nanak Ji, emphasizing non-violence and courage. He argued that the current ruling party has created a climate of fear over the past decade,” Baghel stated.
Baghel criticized the BJP for claiming sole representation of Hindus and promoting fear. He stressed that India is diverse, with Hindus, tribals, minorities, Sikhs, Christians, and Buddhists, and accused the BJP of dividing these communities.
“Hindus have not chosen BJP and RSS as their guides. The atmosphere of fear and suppression based on religion and caste is not part of Indian civilization,” Baghel asserted.
Referring to Rahul Gandhi’s speech, Baghel accused the BJP of objecting to symbols of Hinduism like the image of Lord Shiva in Parliament. “BJP’s objections to showing our gods and chanting Jai Samvidhaan is anti-national and anti-Hindu,” he said, alleging continuous attacks on the Constitution and Indian ideals over the last ten years. Baghel shared his personal experience of being targeted, highlighting the misuse of power by the Modi government.
Baghel emphasized that Hindus are traditionally non-violent and truthful, drawing parallels with the teachings of Kabir and Guru Ghasi Das Ji. “Walking the path of truth precludes violence and intimidation,” he noted, contrasting this with the BJP and RSS’s history of fear.
He accused the BJP and RSS of adopting a nationalism similar to that of Hitler and Mussolini, imported and not rooted in Indian traditions. He advocated for resolving differences through dialogue, as per Mahatma Gandhi’s principles, criticizing the BJP’s strategy of treating opponents as enemies.
“Rahul Gandhi’s message in Parliament was clear: Hindu society is much larger than the BJP, RSS, or Narendra Modi. His message of courage and non-intimidation reflects Indian civilization and Sanatan culture,” Baghel concluded.
Baghel also questioned Prime Minister Modi’s adherence to Hindu traditions, citing instances where Modi did not follow traditional practices, such as during the Ram Mandir Pran-Pratishtha ceremony and his mother’s funeral.
