Congress MP Rahul Gandhi today launched a critique of the BJP-led government during a debate in the Lok Sabha commemorating 75 years of the adoption of the Constitution.
During his speech, Mr Gandhi drew a contrast between the Constitution and the Manusmriti, a religious book, invoking the writings of Hindutva ideologue VD Savarkar.
“Savarkar clearly stated in his writings that there is nothing Indian about our Constitution. Do you stand by your leader’s words? When you praise the Constitution in Parliament you are ridiculing Savarkar,” Mr Gandhi said.
Earlier in the day, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju accused the Congress of selective appropriation of constitutional values while ignoring its own historical contradictions. Mr Rijiju opened today’s session with a rebuttal, criticising the Congress for its treatment of Dr BR Ambedkar, the principal architect of the Constitution.