Since the beginning of the Motion of Thanks address for the President in Parliament by the incumbent MPs, the Congress and its allies have opted to dissent from the President’s address and criticize aspects of Hindu or Indian culture.
In this context, Congress MP KC Venugopal from Alappuzha, Kerala, have stirred a new row on 2 July 2024, made derogatory remarks about the revered Hindu scripture Bhagavad Gita, accusing it of promoting violence, murder, and intolerance. This statement was made in support of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s earlier comment alleging that those identifying as Hindus are involved in violence and hatred, sparking significant protests and criticism from various quarters.
Venugopal also questioned the President’s assertion of the government’s clear majority, stating, “Why is the President insisting that the government has a clear majority? We are certain that this government’s insecurity is evident in the President’s address.”
He further criticized the BJP, alleging that their electoral success was bolstered by external support including from investigative agencies like the ED, CBI, and IT, as well as biased media coverage funded by corporate entities. Venugopal claimed that without this support, the BJP would have secured fewer seats.
Addressing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s pre-election statements, Venugopal highlighted the victories of Rahul Gandhi in Wayanad and Rae Bareli, contrasting them with Modi’s predictions of defeat. He criticized BJP narratives and accused them of using Hinduism for electoral polarization, challenging their commitment to Hindu beliefs.
In reference to Article 123(3)(a) of the Constitution, Venugopal recalled instances of communal speeches by PM Modi and accused him of disregarding constitutional norms, citing electoral irregularities and the Election Commission’s perceived inaction.
Later, KC Venugopal posed a rhetorical question about the true adherence to Hinduism among BJP members and INDI alliance members. He raised the issue of defining “who is a real Hindu,” stating that it should be someone who comprehends the principles of dialogue, tolerance, and human values.
Venugopal said, “Mahatma Gandhi and Godse believe in the Bhagavad Gita, both believed in Bhagavad Gita, both read Bhagavad Gita, but Gandhi learnt non-violence, tolerance and respect for human life from the Gita and the message of Lord Krishna. Godse learnt violence, murder and intolerance from the same textbook. We believe in Gandhi’s Hinduism not Godse’s Hinduism.”
A new low today. Which part of the holy book of Hindus, Bhagawad Geeta sung by God Krishna, teaches Violence, Murder and Intolerance? Can the honourable MP quote the chapter / verse ? pic.twitter.com/jHaty08NWa
— 𑀓𑀺𑀭𑀼𑀱𑁆𑀡𑀷𑁆 🇮🇳 (@tskrishnan) July 2, 2024
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