NEW DELHI: The much-awaited showdown between Narendra Modi and Rahul Gandhi unfolded in dramatic fashion in Lok Sabha on Monday with the newly-appointed leader of opposition saying, "those who call themselves Hindus indulge in hatred, violence and untruths 24x7", drawing a strong rebuttal from the PM. Rahul's remarks, during the debate on the motion of thanks on the President's address, inflamed what was already building up as an intense duel. Modi immediately got up to protest, saying, "Calling the entire Hindu community violent is a serious issue.
" Rahul shot back, "Modiji, BJP , RSS are not the entire Hindu community...
A Hindu can never spread violence or fear or hatred." As treasury benches protested, he said, "Aap Hindu ho hi nahi". speech The exchange was one of many which marked Rahul's maiden speech as leader of opposition.
While he appeared charged, targeting govt over Manipur, Agniveer, NEET and MSP, an indication of BJP's combative intent came right at the outset in the form of the PM's riposte to Rahul's jibe about his face betraying no expression. "I have been taught by the Constitution and democracy to take the LoP seriously," Modi said. The PM got support from his senior colleagues.
Home minister Amit Shah supported Modi's charge that Rahul had insulted Hindus. "Crores of people in country proudly call themselves Hindus. Are they all speaking about violence? Linking violence to any religion, that too by somebody holding a constitutional position.
.. I believe h.
