BJP MPs Demand More Than Expunging, Seek Privilege Motion Against Rahul Gandhi

BJP MPs are set to file a privilege motion against Congress MP and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi over his "misleading" statements in the Lok Sabha on Monday concerning the India-China border dispute and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's visit to the United States.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, who strongly objected to Gandhi's remarks, accused him of tarnishing India's image, undermining the Prime Minister's position, and disrespecting Parliament during his speech on the Motion of Thanks to the President's address.

Gandhi claimed that China was occupying "over 4,000 sq km" of Indian territory and alleged that the Army had contradicted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's assertion that no land had been ceded to Beijing. He also suggested that Jaishankar had to be sent to the US to secure an invitation for PM Modi to attend Donald Trump's inauguration.

Reacting to these statements, Rijiju said, "How can he say that? The Prime Minister and the governance system are one. His claim that the Army Chief contradicted the PM should be challenged." He added that BJP MPs would either demand Gandhi to provide proof for his allegations or proceed with a privilege motion against him.

Earlier in Parliament, Rijiju confronted Gandhi directly, accusing him of spreading false narratives. "How can you say this... you are lying," the Union Minister objected.

Rahul Gandhi Stirs Controversy

During his speech, Gandhi attacked the Modi government, linking the presence of Chinese troops in Indian territory to the alleged failure of the 'Make-in-India' initiative.

"Our Chief of Army Staff has said the Chinese are inside our territory. This is a fact. China is here because 'Make in India' has failed. India is refusing to produce, and that is why China has entered," he stated.

Challenging Gandhi's claims, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla demanded evidence, saying, "You must provide proof for your statements in the House."

On Jaishankar's US visit, Gandhi remarked, "If we had a robust production system, the US President would have invited our Prime Minister instead of us having to send our Foreign Minister three times for an invitation."

'Rahul Gandhi's Lies Harm India's Global Image'

Dismissing Gandhi's claims, Jaishankar refuted the suggestion that he was sent to the US to secure an invitation for PM Modi. He asserted that no such discussion took place during his 2024 visit and accused Gandhi of making statements that damage India's international reputation.