Heated Debates and Controversial Remarks: 10 Times When Indian Politicians Crossed the Line
Crossing the line in the Parliament
The Indian Parliament is a vibrant arena for political discourse and debate. However, over the years, some politicians have crossed the line with their remarks, sparking controversies and tarnishing the image of the Parliament.
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Rajiv Gandhi's
In 1989, then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi sparked outrage when he referred to India as a Hindu Rashtra (Hindu Nation) during a visit to the United States. His comments were seen as an attempt to appease the Hindu majority, alienating minority groups.
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Mulayam Singh Yadav's
In 2014, Samajwadi Party leader Mulayam Singh Yadav made a flippant remark about the gang rape of a young woman in Badaun, Uttar Pradesh. He said, Boys will be boys, downplaying the severity of the crime and causing widespread anger.
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Mani Shankar Aiyar's
In 2014, Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar referred to then-Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi as neech (lowly) during a rally. His comments were seen as disrespectful and led to a major political showdown between the Congress and the BJP.
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Yogi Adityanath's
In 2017, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath made a controversial statement comparing Hindu deity Hanuman to Muslim icon Hazrat Ali. His remarks were seen as inflammatory and sparked protests from Muslim groups.
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Uma Bharti's
In 2015, BJP leader Uma Bharti made a chilling statement calling for the shooting of those who opposed the Ram Mandir construction in Ayodhya. Her comments were widely condemned as inciting violence.
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Ashok Chavan's
In 2011, Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan made a controversial statement suggesting that police could shoot Naxalites moving in villages. His comments drew criticism for allegedly advocating extrajudicial killings.
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Digvijaya Singh's
In 2018, Congress leader Digvijaya Singh made a disparaging remark about then-Defense Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, referring to her as a bag carrying minister (batwa wali sarkar). His comments were seen as sexist and disrespectful.
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Sakshi Maharaj's
In 2014, BJP MLA Sakshi Maharaj made a shocking statement praising Nathuram Godse, Mahatma Gandhis assassin, during a public rally. His comments were met with widespread condemnation and led to his expulsion from the BJP.
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Azam Khan's
SP leader Azam Khan made a derogatory remark about BJP leader Yogi Adityanath, referring to him as a khadse (eunuch). His comments were seen as offensive and led to a defamation case against him.
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Asaduddin Owaisi's
In 2014, AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi made a controversial statement questioning whether he would be able to say Bharat Mata ki Jai (Hail Mother India) if he were forced to choose between India and Islam. His comments sparked a debate on nationalism and religious identity.
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