Rahul Munir (File)
BJP IT Cell chief Amit Malviya triggered a political firestorm by posting a provocative image on X, juxtaposing Congress leader Rahul Gandhi with Pakistan’s General Asim Munir, captioned “One Agenda.” The poster, shared at 10:53 AM implied Gandhi’s criticism of Operation Sindoor aligned with Pakistan’s interests, prompting fierce backlash from Congress and intensifying India’s charged political climate.
Details of the Controversy
Malviya’s post suggested Gandhi’s remarks on the operation echoed Pakistan’s narrative, accusing him of undermining national security. Shared by Media Houses, the image drew immediate condemnation from Congress leaders, who labeled it a “vile smear” aimed at defaming Gandhi.
Congress’s Fierce Rebuttal
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge called the poster “malicious” and “dangerous,” accusing the BJP of stooping to personal attacks to deflect from governance failures. Jairam Ramesh, Congress communications chief, defended Gandhi’s critique of Operation Sindoor as a call for parliamentary transparency, not anti-nationalism. The party filed a complaint with the Election Commission, alleging the poster incites hatred, reminiscent of a 2023 BJP post depicting Gandhi as Ravan, which led to legal action.
BJP’s Pattern of Targeting Gandhi
Malviya’s post aligns with the BJP’s history of targeting Gandhi, as seen in a 2023 “new age Ravan” poster and 2024 anti-Modi US protest allegations. Critics argue the BJP uses such tactics to polarize voters, especially with upcoming elections. Malviya’s earlier posts, like those criticizing Gandhi’s Vietnam trip during Manmohan Singh’s mourning, reflect a consistent strategy to paint him as unpatriotic.
Broader Implications
The controversy underscores India’s polarized discourse, where social media amplifies political mudslinging. While BJP supporters on X hailed Malviya’s post as exposing Gandhi’s “anti-India agenda,” others condemned it as divisive. As Operation Sindoor fuels national pride, such attacks risk escalating tensions, with calls for responsible rhetoric growing louder amid India’s complex geopolitical challenges.
Copyright © 2025 Top Indian News