Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday launched a sharp attack on Congress MP and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of repeatedly making remarks that undermine India's traditions, heritage and democratic institutions.
Addressing a gathering in Raebareli, Yogi referred to Gandhi's recent remarks in Maharashtra, where the Congress leader had urged women to break free from what he called the "shackles of the Manusmriti."
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"Recently, I was reading a statement made by the Member of Parliament from Raebareli, Rahul Gandhi. He made a statement in Maharashtra urging women to break free from the shackles of the Manusmriti. Rahul ji, the country does not have high expectations of you merely as Rahul Gandhi; in fact, it has no expectations at all. However, your role as the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament entails accountability towards the country's democracy," Yogi said.
He further accused Gandhi of disrespecting India's traditions and heritage, citing his past remarks on Lord Ram and Ayodhya. "You took an oath to uphold the Constitution of India, yet you seem to consider it your birthright to disparage India's traditions and heritage," Yogi said. He also invoked the 1975 Emergency while questioning the Congress leader's commitment to democracy, referring to the party's historical record.
On Gandhi's comments about Manu, Yogi suggested he study ancient texts instead. "If you wish to understand Manu, read the Atharvaveda, the Shatapatha Brahmana and the Matsya Purana; you will find all the information there," he said.
