Congress misusing free speech, claims Rijiju

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on Sunday hit back at Congress claims of suppressed free speech, accusing the party of misusing freedom of expression for political gains. Congress had recently alleged that the BJP-led government was curbing dissent, especially targeting Opposition leaders like Rahul Gandhi in Parliament.

Rijiju stated that those raising concerns about curbs on free speech are, in fact, pushing a divisive agenda. He alleged that some voices advocating “freedom of speech” are actually promoting the separation of Jammu and Kashmir and the North East from India. “Freedom of speech should protect constitutional rights, not support breaking the country, backing Maoists, or defending Article 370 in Kashmir,” he said.

The Minister also criticised Congress for repeatedly attacking Prime Minister Narendra Modi under the guise of dissent. “From morning to evening, they keep abusing PM Modi and claim there is no freedom to speak. They want to misuse this freedom to split the nation,” Rijiju added.

He singled out Rahul Gandhi for his remarks in Colombia, where Gandhi had said, “India cannot lead the world. The biggest challenge India is witnessing is the attack on its democracy.” Rijiju said, “He is the first Leader of the Opposition to go abroad and speak against India, its system, and democracy. Such statements can tarnish the country’s reputation.” He defended BJP’s responses, stressing that the party’s criticism is about Gandhi’s actions as LoP, not personal animosity. He noted that previous opposition leaders, including Indira Gandhi, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and Sharad Pawar, never spoke against India while abroad.

Rijiju concluded, “We have intelligent leaders and people with strong ideologies. But if Rahul Gandhi speaks irresponsibly, it creates a false impression about India internationally.”

He added that the BJP remains committed to protecting India’s unity and sovereignty, warning that any attempts to misuse freedom of expression to spread divisive agendas would be firmly opposed.