Political tensions escalated in Bihar after alleged offensive language targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi was used during a Congress rally. In response, BJP supporters, including Legislative Council member Surendra Choudhary, used a photograph of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi as a makeshift footrest, sparking further controversy. Choudhary defended this act, citing Rahul Gandhi’s actions as justification, and even hinted at further acts involving the image. The controversy surrounded the use of inappropriate language directed at PM Modi and his late mother.
The BJP organized a march in protest of the offensive remarks made during Rahul Gandhi’s Voter Rights Yatra. This march led to a confrontation at the Congress headquarters, with the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha emphasizing the ultimate triumph of truth. The individual accused of making the derogatory remarks was arrested in Darbhanga, while BJP workers marched to the Sadaqat Ashram, the state Congress headquarters, leading to a clash with Congress members.
Nitin Naveen, a state minister who led the BJP march, declared that they would not tolerate insults directed at PM Modi, demanding apologies from Rahul Gandhi and his allies. Rahul Gandhi indirectly responded, reaffirming the dominance of truth and non-violence. He emphasized their commitment to defending truth and the constitution.
Congress General Secretary Sachin Pilot condemned the offensive language but refuted any connection to the Congress and the INDIA alliance. He condemned the attack on the state headquarters and urged the Bihar government to take action against the perpetrators. He suggested that the BJP’s actions were a result of the successful Voter Rights Yatra.
Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) spokesperson Manoj Jha criticized the incident but also questioned whether the BJP had ever apologized for similar remarks made by their own leaders. He claimed this was a calculated move by the BJP to gain publicity.
K.C. Venugopal, Congress General Secretary (Organization), took to social media to accuse the BJP of intimidation, labeling the attack on their Patna office as cowardly and calling for strong action by the Bihar police.