Rahul Gandhi and the Congress party received a severe scolding on Tuesday from Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the Lok Sabha. This was a reaction to Gandhi’s divisive speech, which caused a great deal of controversy. Instead of declaring a moral triumph, Prime Minister Modi encouraged the Congress to accept the results of the Lok Sabha election, in which they only won 99 out of 543 seats.
Without identifying Gandhi explicitly, Modi attacked what he called Gandhi’s “balak buddhi” (child-like intelligence) using a combination of facts, comedy, and cautions. He made reference to Gandhi’s “childish behavior” in the House, raising the possibility that there was a larger plot driving his acts. With regard to the MSP for farmers and the Agniveer program in particular, Modi demanded that strong action be taken against the “lies” propagated by Gandhi.
Modi blasted Gandhi for staging a “drama for sympathy” and denounced the Congress for supposedly disseminating false information regarding the Rafale agreement, electronic voting machines, and other changes. He emphasized the Congress’s dismal showing in three straight elections, noting that they each fell short of securing 100 seats. On the other hand, the National Democratic Alliance secured a majority with 293 seats, while the BJP secured 240 seats.
Using stories to support his arguments, PM Modi likened Congress’s actions to a toddler looking for comfort following a small victory. He further referred to the Congress as a “parasite” party that gains an advantage over its allies. In his speech, Modi sought to caution against the propagation of false narratives and chaos while highlighting the need for accountability and reflection inside the Congress.
