BJP MP Anil Bonde Sparks Controversy with Remarks on Rahul Gandhi’s Tongue
Nagpur: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Rajya Sabha MP Anil Bonde has ignited a political storm by suggesting that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi deserves to have his tongue “burned,” following a statement made by Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Gaikwad. Gaikwad had controversially offered a bounty of ₹11 lakh for anyone who could “snip off” Gandhi’s tongue, referencing his recent comments during a trip to the United States regarding reservations.
Bonde criticized Gaikwad’s language, stating that instead of advocating for violence, Gandhi’s actions abroad warranted a metaphorical punishment, declaring, “If someone goes abroad and talks like a fool, then his tongue should be burned.” His remarks have drawn sharp rebuke from leaders across the political spectrum, particularly within the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition, which includes Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP).
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge took the issue directly to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling for the BJP to rein in its leaders who make inflammatory comments against Gandhi. Kharge’s intervention followed Gaikwad’s inflammatory statement, which not only embarrassed the ruling coalition but also led to an FIR against him.
MVA allies expressed their outrage at the BJP’s rhetoric. Congress Chief Spokesperson Atul Londhe remarked, “This shows that there is a ‘Nathuram Godse’ lurking in every alley now, but this time they will not be able to kill a Gandhi, or there will be repercussions.” Shiv Sena spokesperson Kishore Tiwari described the remarks as part of a “sinister strategy” by the BJP to silence the opposition, asserting that Gandhi’s questions regarding government accountability have had a significant global impact, which frustrates the ruling party.
NCP spokesperson Clyde Crasto labeled the comments as symptomatic of a disturbing mindset among BJP leaders, suggesting they require mental health intervention. Crasto called for legal action against Bonde and Gaikwad for their violent rhetoric.
A senior Congress leader noted that the BJP appears to be struggling to counter the influence of a strong opposition leader like Gandhi, resorting to threats in a bid to intimidate him. Tiwari added that MVA activists have filed an FIR against Gaikwad and plan to lodge similar complaints against Bonde across Maharashtra.
The escalating tensions highlight the ongoing friction between the BJP and opposition parties, as political discourse in India continues to polarize.
