BJP Takes Action Over 'Shakti' Comments: Lodges Complaint Against Rahul Gandhi With EC

Seizing upon Rahul Gandhi's remarks about "fighting against a shakti," a complaint was lodged with the Election Commission of India against the Congress leader by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday.

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri informed reporters that a detailed presentation was made before the poll panel, wherein Rahul Gandhi's remarks were read out verbatim.

Photo Credit: PTI

Rahul Gandhi's Controversial Statement

During the Bharat Jodo Nyay Manzil - INDIA Rally at Shivaji Park in Mumbai on Sunday, Rahul Gandhi had stated, "We are not fighting against a political party... We are not fighting against Narendra Modi, nor are we fighting against one person. But, one face has been projected in the forefront." He further added, "In Hindu dharma, there is a word 'shakti'. We are fighting against a 'shakti' (power). The question arises as to what is that 'shakti'...," in the presence of several opposition leaders of the INDIA bloc.

Union Minister's Response

After filing a complaint with the Election Commission, Puri stated, "I read out the exact thing of what he said and then we went and made a detailed presentation." He emphasized, "He insulted the religious sentiments of a lot of people. He insulted 'Nari Shakti'."

PM Modi's Criticism

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Tuesday, led the BJP's criticism of Rahul Gandhi's "shakti" remarks, stating that those seeking to destroy "shakti" would themselves be destroyed. Addressing a rally in Salem, Tamil Nadu, he alleged that the constituents of the INDIA bloc would never speak ill about any other faith but would not hesitate to abuse the Hindu religion.

Gandhi's Clarification

Gandhi clarified on Monday that he was not referring to any religious power but rather to the 'shakti' of unrighteousness, corruption, and falsehood.