Lok Sabha Elections: As the seventh and final phase of the Lok Sabha elections approaches on 1st June, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has once again found himself at the centre of a heated debate. In a recent interview with a private channel, PM Modi made a statement about Mahatma Gandhi that has garnered widespread attention and criticism. The Congress party has seized upon this comment to target the Prime Minister.PM Modis Controversial Comment on Mahatma GandhiIn the interview, PM Modi remarked, Mahatma Gandhi was a very great soul. Was it not our responsibility in these 75 years to ensure that the whole world knows about Mahatma Gandhi Nobody knew Mahatma Gandhi. But for the first time when the film Mahatma Gandhi was made, people became curious about him.Congress RespondsRahul Gandhi, a prominent leader of the Congress party, quickly responded to PM Modis statement. He tweeted, Only a student of Entire Political Science would need to watch the film to know about Mahatma Gandhi. This was a clear dig at PM Modi, referencing Modis past academic controversies.Mallikarjun Kharge, the Congress National President, also criticised PM Modis comment. He posted on Instagram, Those whose ideological ancestors were involved in the murder of Mahatma Gandhi along with Nathuram Godse can never follow the path of truth given by Bapu.जिनके वैचारिक पूर्वज नाथूराम गोडसे के साथ महात्मा गाँधी जी की हत्या में शामिल थे, वो बापू द्वारा दिए गए सत्य के मार्ग पर कभी नहीं चल सकते।अब झूठ झोला उठाकर जाने वाला है।— Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) May 29, 2024Rahul Gandhis Video MessageIn addition to his tweet, Rahul Gandhi shared a video in which he spoke about Mahatma Gandhis enduring legacy. He said, Mahatma Gandhi is the sun that gave the whole world the strength to fight against darkness. In the form of truth and non-violence, Bapu showed the world a path that gives courage to even the weakest person to stand against injustice. He does not need any branch-educated certificate.महात्मा गांधी वो सूर्य हैं जिसने पूरे विश्व को अंधेरों से लड़ने की ताकत दी।सत्य और अहिंसा के रूप में बापू ने दुनिया को ऐसा मार्ग दिखाया, जो कमज़ोर से कमज़ोर व्यक्ति को भी अन्याय के खिलाफ खड़े होने का साहस देता है।उन्हें किसी शाखा शिक्षित के प्रमाणपत्र की ज़रूरत नहीं है। pic.twitter.com/OK4aRtunKB— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) May 29, 2024Analysis and ImplicationsPM Modis comment about Mahatma Gandhi has sparked significant backlash, particularly from the Congress party. This controversy comes at a crucial time as the final phase of the Lok Sabha elections nears. The opposition is using this opportunity to question the Prime Ministers understanding of Indian history and his ideological leanings.The Congress partys strong reactions highlight their strategy to undermine PM Modis image and appeal to the electorate by emphasising his perceived ignorance of Indias revered leaders. The reference to Gandhis legacy of truth and non-violence is intended to contrast sharply with the current political climate and Modis leadership style.As the final votes are cast in the Lok Sabha elections, PM Modis recent remarks have added fuel to the political fire. The Congress partys swift and pointed responses aim to capitalise on the controversy, potentially influencing voter sentiment. The outcome of this phase could be pivotal, with both sides keenly aware of the high stakes involved.
