BJP Demands Probe Into Opposition Protests And Alleged Foreign Ties

The BJP on Tuesday demanded an official investigation into recent Opposition-led protests over alleged links with foreign organisations. The party's demand follows demonstrations by the Opposition demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Earlier protests by opposition parties also demanded the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan as the Minister of Education following NEET paper leaks.

Press Conference Claims

Addressing a press conference in the Capital, BJP spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia pointed to a media sting operation and accused Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi of promoting the politics of violence, anarchy, and regime change. Bhatia raised questions over statements advocating situations similar to those in France, Nepal, and Bangladesh. He also claimed there is a strategy of using women as shields during protests along with funding of five lakh rupees per day.

Leadership Criticism

Bhatia criticised Rahul Gandhi, Akhilesh Yadav, and Mamata Banerjee as leaders who are losing elections and attempting to weaken India by joining hands with anti-national forces. He claimed that because these leaders cannot gain power through votes, they want to bring about a regime change through violence. Bhatia specifically alleged that Rahul Gandhi devised a strategy of placing women at the forefront because Indian and Delhi police exercise restraint while dealing with women protesters, which can then be misrepresented to tarnish the image of the police and Indian democracy.

Funding Questions

Bhatia noted that protest sites now feature air conditioners, coolers, water, burgers, and pizzas, raising questions about the source of the money. He specifically asked if the funding is coming from organisations like Progressive International, which he claimed have been linked to Sonia Gandhi.

Context

Political parties in India frequently hold public demonstrations and press conferences to target their political rivals over governance and policy disputes. Allegations regarding protest funding and foreign influences are common points of political debate during major national demonstrations.