New Delhi: Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi’s speech in the Lok Sabha triggered sharp protests from BJP MPs after he used the word “fools” during a discussion linked to student protests.
Speaking on education issues, Rahul said students are charged large sums for education, yet face problems such as irregularities in the system and question paper leaks, leading to dissatisfaction. He argued that youth protests stem from anguish rather than anger.
Rahul also said those in power behave as if they are like gods and do not listen to others, using the disputed term in that context. Amid objections, he paused and maintained that he had not named any individual while using the word.
Union minister Kiren Rijiju objected, saying Rahul should adhere to parliamentary rules and that the term should be expunged from the record. As both sides raised slogans, Speaker Om Birla urged members to maintain order and advised Rahul to focus on the debate.
Rahul later alleged that Home Minister Amit Shah had permitted the use of pellet guns against students. Rijiju countered that the charge was baseless and demanded an apology, with BJP MPs echoing the demand. Speaker Om Birla said the House could not accept allegations made without evidence, after which ministers Amit Shah and Kiren Rijiju were seen conferring.
