In a sharp attack on opposition leader Rahul Gandhi, Union Minister Giriraj Singh has accused him of spreading “disrespect and instability” across the country, from Bihar to Kashmir. The minister’s strong comments come after a controversial incident in Srinagar where a plaque bearing India’s national Ashoka Emblem was vandalized.
Speaking to reporters, Singh didn’t hold back, stating, “If the country runs on Rahul Gandhi’s directions, it will collapse.”
Connecting the recent event to past political controversies, the minister directly questioned Rahul Gandhi and leaders of the Bihar-based RJD party. “How many times will you get Bihar abused?” he asked, referencing previous visits by other opposition leaders. “And now, Rahul Gandhi, what have you made happen in Kashmir?”
Singh emphasized the national importance of the damaged symbol, saying, “The Ashoka Pillar is not just the pillar of Emperor Ashoka of Bihar. It has been adopted by the Constitution. It has been embraced by the nation…”
The incident that sparked this political firestorm occurred at the revered Hazratbal Shrine in Jammu & Kashmir. Unidentified individuals defaced an inauguration plaque that featured the Ashoka Emblem, which is India’s national symbol. The plaque was part of a renovation project being carried out by the Jammu & Kashmir Waqf Board.
The vandalism of this important symbol at a sensitive religious site has drawn strong criticism from various quarters. Jammu & Kashmir Police have taken action, registering a formal case (FIR) at the Nigeen Police Station and launching an investigation under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Shifting his focus to broader national issues, Singh also praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s work. He credited the PM with lifting 27 crore people out of poverty and making GST simpler to help the poor and middle class celebrate festivals better. “Such occasions will keep coming every year,” Singh said, “and Narendra Modi will keep giving in this way.”
