'Those Who Declare War Against Indian State...': PM Modi Takes 'Urban Naxal' Jibe At Rahul Gandhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi attacked the opposition parties in Parliament on Tuesday during the debate on the Motion of Thanks to President's address.

The Prime Minister said that only the BJP and its allies "understand the spirit of the Constitution and live by it". Without naming Leader Of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, he said, "Some openly speak the language of Urban Naxals. Those who declare war against the Indian state can't understand the country's constitution or democracy,"

Ever since Rahul Gandhi extended support to the student communities at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), the BJP has used the 'Urban Naxal' jibe at Rahul Gandhi.

PM Modi's Urban Naxals Jibe

PM Modi also slammed Rahul Gandhi's frequent use of the Constitution as a political tool, stating, "Our Constitution doesn't teach us to discriminate... Those who roam around with the Constitution in their pockets never cared about Muslim women." This remark was part of the BJP's renewed focus on the Constitution, following allegations from the Opposition that the ruling party aimed to undermine B.R. Ambedkar's vision.

The Prime Minister also took aim at the Nehru-Gandhi family, criticizing past prime ministers and accusing the Congress of dynastic politics. "Everyone can live for themselves, but those who live for the Constitution are sitting here. When power becomes dynasty, it ends democracy," he said. He specifically referenced former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi's father, who was often called 'Mr. Clean,' pointing out that Rajiv Gandhi had once admitted that only 25 paise out of every rupee meant for the poor reached them.

Modi Highlights BJP's Achievements

In contrast, PM Modi highlighted his government's achievements, claiming that under his administration, the poor have been direct beneficiaries. "We deposited Rs 40 lakh crore directly," he declared, adding, "In the last 10 years of BJP rule, 25 crore people were able to overcome poverty. Before this, for decades, we heard 'garibi hatao' slogans, but couldn't do it... We didn't give slogans to the poor... we gave real development. Till now, we have given four crore houses to the poor."

The Prime Minister defended his government's commitment to constitutional principles, noting that the BJP had included Opposition leaders in key meetings, such as those related to the Election Commission. "We do this because we believe in living the Constitution," he said.

Opposition leaders, however, were quick to criticize PM Modi's speech. Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra remarked, "I think he has lost his connect with people and their needs. This is what it seemed from his speech." Similarly, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor dismissed the address as a "typical election speech."