Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, speaking in Berlin, accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of trying to weaken India’s Constitution and democracy. Addressing students and members of the Indian diaspora at the Hertie School, Gandhi said India’s democratic system is “a global asset” that must be protected.
He claimed the BJP has taken control of key institutions, including the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), to strengthen its political power and silence opposition voices. Gandhi warned that this capture of institutions is affecting the core principles of the Constitution, including equality among states, languages, and religions. He urged the opposition to unite and create a strong system to resist these threats.
“Democracy in India is not just for us; it is important to the world. Weakening our institutions has consequences beyond India,” Gandhi said. He added that the opposition’s role is not only to contest elections but to protect the country’s democratic framework.
The BJP responded strongly, calling Gandhi’s remarks irresponsible and damaging to India’s image abroad. Party leaders accused him of spreading fear and promoting “chaos and unrest.” They said his comments undermine public trust in democratic institutions and urged him to focus on domestic issues rather than making international statements.
This exchange highlights the growing political tensions between Congress and the BJP. Both parties are using public platforms—inside and outside India—to highlight their views and rally support ahead of future elections. Gandhi’s Berlin speech and the BJP’s rebuttal show the deep divide over issues like institutional independence, governance, and the protection of constitutional values.
The debate reflects broader concerns about the health of India’s democracy and the importance of strong, independent institutions. Both sides are now seeking to influence public opinion and frame the narrative on who can best protect India’s democratic system in the coming years.
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