4 July 2024: Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray has passionately defended Congress leader Rahul Gandhi following his controversial speech in the Lok Sabha. Thackeray questioned the claims that Gandhi insulted Hinduism, asking, “Where did he insult Hinduism?” He highlighted an incident where Gandhi was allegedly prevented from displaying a picture of Lord Shiva in Parliament, challenging the BJP’s interpretation of Hindutva.
Thackeray’s defense comes after significant backlash against Gandhi’s remarks during his maiden speech as the Leader of Opposition. Gandhi’s speech, which accused the BJP of monopolizing Hinduism and sowing communal divisions, was met with strong reactions from BJP members as well as Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Gandhi’s comments led to parts of his speech being expunged from the parliamentary records.
In his defense, Thackeray emphasized that true Hindutva is inclusive and not exclusive to any political party. “We are also Hindus and none of us will insult Hindutva,” he stated, reiterating Gandhi’s message that the BJP does not have a monopoly on Hinduism. Thackeray’s remarks reflect a broader concern about the BJP’s narrative of Hindutva and its impact on Indian politics.
Gandhi, responding to the expunging of his speech, maintained that the truth remains unaltered despite censorship. He reiterated that his remarks were aimed at highlighting the BJP’s divisive politics and asserting that Hinduism is not confined to the BJP’s definitions.
The controversy over Gandhi’s speech has sparked a broader debate about the interpretation of Hindutva and the role of religion in Indian politics. As Thackeray and Gandhi stand firm in their positions, the discourse around Hindutva continues to be a significant point of contention in the country’s political landscape.
