Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Jul 29: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday criticised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over his remarks during the Lok Sabha debate on the newly passed anti-paper leak legislation, accusing him of making factually incorrect statements, misleading the nation, and using unparliamentary language.

Addressing a press conference at the BJP headquarters, BJP MP and national spokesperson Sambit Patra welcomed the passage of the strengthened law, saying the Narendra Modi-led government has taken firm measures to make the examination system more transparent, secure, and accountable by imposing stricter penalties on those involved in paper leak rackets.

Patra alleged that Rahul Gandhi repeatedly changed his arguments during the debate and failed to raise substantive issues concerning students. He claimed that the Leader of the Opposition falsely alleged that security forces had opened fire on protesting students and wrongly accused Union Home Minister Amit Shah of ordering such action.

Refuting the allegations, Patra said no firing had taken place and that decisions regarding crowd control are taken by the local magistrate based on the prevailing situation, not by the Union Home Minister.

The BJP spokesperson also objected to Rahul Gandhi's use of terms such as "idiot" and "Andbhakt" during his speech, describing them as unparliamentary and insulting to students and the public.

Patra further alleged that Rahul Gandhi made baseless accusations against security personnel by claiming they had misbehaved with women protesters, saying such remarks undermine the morale and dignity of the armed forces.

Responding to Rahul Gandhi's criticism over Amit Shah's absence during the debate, Patra asserted that the Home Minister was present in Parliament and accused the Congress leader of attempting to create sensationalism. He also rejected Rahul Gandhi's claims regarding the Home Minister's security convoy and allegations that his microphone had been switched off in the House.

Accusing the Congress of trying to create unrest for political gains, Patra alleged that the party has historically prioritised the Gandhi family over the interests of students and youth. He said the BJP remained committed to governance, legal reforms, and factual discourse, while the Congress relied on misinformation and political theatrics.

Patra demanded that Rahul Gandhi apologise to the nation for what he described as "false" and "misleading" statements made in Parliament.