Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra made headlines again on Tuesday, carrying a tote bag with a message about the atrocities faced by minorities in Bangladesh, just a day after her pro-Palestine bag caused a stir in Parliament. The new bag, which displayed messages against the persecution of minorities in Bangladesh, was carried by Priyanka Gandhi and other Opposition MPs during their protest at Parliament, drawing attention to ongoing issues beyond domestic politics.
The opposition members, who have been protesting in Parliament over various issues, including the recent US court indictment of businessman Gautam Adani, used tote bags and placards to bring attention to the plight of minorities in Bangladesh. The Opposition’s unique method of protest included wearing jackets and t-shirts that displayed messages like “Modi-Adani ek hain” during the ongoing Winter Session.
Priyanka Gandhi’s previous appearance with a bag bearing the word “Palestine” had already triggered a debate, with the BJP accusing her of supporting Palestine at the expense of India’s interests. BJP leaders criticized the gesture, accusing the Congress party of appeasing certain groups for political gain. BJP MP Manoj Tiwari accused Congress of using “different agendas to get votes,” while Union Minister SP Singh Baghel alleged that the pro-Palestine bag was part of an effort to “polarize Muslim votes.”
Priyanka Gandhi, however, responded by focusing on the ongoing issues in Bangladesh, stating that the government should address the atrocities happening against minorities and Hindus there. She urged the Central government to engage with Bangladesh on the matter, instead of focusing on what she called “useless” criticisms from the BJP.
The controversy surrounding the tote bags is part of a broader political divide, with the BJP accusing Congress of using symbolic gestures to gain political mileage. On the other hand, Priyanka Gandhi and the Opposition have continued to challenge the government’s inaction on critical issues, both domestic and international.
This latest development comes amid heightened tensions over the Israel-Palestine conflict, with India maintaining a consistent policy supporting a two-state solution. Priyanka Gandhi’s actions, including her meeting with Palestine Embassy Charge d’Affaires Abed Elrazeg Abu Jazer earlier this month, have further sparked debate on her stance regarding the Palestinian issue.
As the protests in Parliament continue, the political battle over symbolism, security, and international relations shows no signs of slowing down.
Sources By Agencies
