ITANAGAR, 11 Aug: State BJP vice president Ashok Sangchoju has strongly criticised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over what he described as repeated disruptions of Parliament, shifting demands, and misleading political narratives.
Addressing mediapersons at the BJP's headquarters here on Tuesday, Sangchoju alleged that Gandhi has undermined parliamentary dignity and has continuously attempted to create chaos instead of allowing meaningful democratic debate.
He said the dignity, decorum and established conventions of Parliament must be respected. He alleged that Gandhi has repeatedly disrupted the functioning of Parliament and used misinformation and political theatrics instead of engaging in constructive debate.
"For the past several days, the nation has witnessed repeated attempts to hijack parliamentary proceedings. Gandhi keeps changing his demands and goalposts. His politics appears focused not on constructive dialogue but on creating disruption and confusion," he said.
Sangchoju said Gandhi initially had demanded the resignation of the union education minister, and subsequently demanded a discussion on NEET in Parliament.
"The government agreed to a comprehensive discussion and also took steps to strengthen legislation against examination paper leaks. But once those demands were addressed, a new demand was raised concerning a statement by Home Minister Amit Shah on the Jantar Mantar protests," he said.
He further stated that the government has consistently maintained that Parliament should be allowed to function, and that every legitimate issue is open for discussion.
"From the very beginning, the government has made it clear that it is ready to discuss every issue and answer every question.
"Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has also made it clear that the home minister is ready to respond to the question. Then why is Gandhi changing his demand again?" Sangchoju asked.
Criticising Gandhi for his statements allegedly made regarding the Jantar Mantar protests, Sangchoju said, "Rahul Gandhi should place facts before the nation, instead of making unverified allegations. If he has questions, let him bring them before Parliament. The home minister is ready to answer every single question," he said.
Citing the protests by the students in Jharkhand, Sangchoju also accused Gandhi and the Congress of "selective politics over student protests."
He alleged that while Congress leaders seek to politically exploit student protests in Delhi, they remain silent when student protesters face police action in states governed by the Congress and its allies.
"Rahul Gandhi cannot selectively speak about students only when it suits his political agenda. The concerns of students must be addressed fairly and consistently, irrespective of which state or political party is involved," he said.
Referring to allegations surrounding police action against protesting students in Jharkhand, Sangchoju said that reports of excessive use of force, barricading, tear gas, water cannons and alleged mistreatment of women protesters must be independently examined and, if established, those responsible must be held accountable.
The state BJP leader demanded that Gandhi clarify his allegations before the nation and Parliament and refrain from making statements that could mislead the public.
"Rahul Gandhi must answer the questions being raised by the people. He should not exploit student issues for political convenience. If allegations are made, they must be backed by facts and discussed through the appropriate democratic forum," Sangchoju said.
Stat BJP vice president Tarh Soping and the BJP's media in-charge Dolang Tako were present during the press meet, said a release issued by the state BJP media cell.
