The political temperature in India soared as BJP unleashed a scathing attack on Rahul Gandhi, branding him the leader of an ‘India Defamation Brigade’ over his pointed criticism of the government’s China policy. This came swiftly after Gandhi’s pointed allegation that Prime Minister Modi had ceded vast swathes of Indian territory to China.
During a high-octane media interaction, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra didn’t hold back. He accused the Wayanad MP of spreading misinformation to tarnish India’s international reputation. Patra specifically rebutted Gandhi’s claim of 4,000 sq km land loss, calling it a ‘fabricated narrative cooked up in Congress kitchens.’
‘Under Modi’s leadership, India has not just held its ground but pushed back against Chinese aggression,’ Patra emphasized. He listed key achievements: over 70 border infrastructure projects completed, advanced fighter jet deployments in Ladakh, and diplomatic wins at global forums. ‘Rahul baba’s job seems to be only defaming India while our forces secure the nation,’ he quipped.
The exchange highlights deepening rifts ahead of elections. Gandhi’s post, which went viral, questioned the secrecy surrounding India-China negotiations post-Galwan. BJP countered by sharing satellite images and official statements proving no territorial loss.
Opposition leaders rallied behind Gandhi, accusing BJP of jingoism to mask governance failures. Yet, BJP’s messaging resonates with its base, portraying Congress as historically soft on China—from 1962 to recent Doklam standoffs.
This isn’t just rhetoric; it’s a battle for public perception on national security. As both sides dig in, voters will decide who truly safeguards India’s sovereignty.