'No Sensitivity': Meghwal Slams Rahul Gandhi Over Nov 1 Protest
Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal accuses Rahul Gandhi of insensitivity toward the Sikh community and traders for planning a protest on November 1.
Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal has launched a scathing attack on the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of a complete lack of sensitivity for scheduling a protest in Delhi on November 1. The Minister alleged that the choice of date ignores both the painful history of the Sikh community and the economic concerns of local traders during the festive season.
A Date Marked by Tragedy
Speaking to reporters, Minister Meghwal highlighted the historical significance of November 1 in the national capital. He reminded the public that this date is associated with the widespread violence and atrocities committed against the Sikh community following the assassination of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in October 1984.
"November 1 is remembered as a very sensitive day in Delhi. Following the events of October 1984, there was widespread violence in Delhi on November 1. Sikh brothers were subjected to atrocities, and there was bloodshed," Meghwal stated.
The Minister questioned why Rahul Gandhi persisted with the date despite the historical trauma associated with it, asserting that the Congress leader has shown "not even the slightest sensitivity" toward these sentiments.
Traders and the Diwali Rush
Beyond the historical concerns, Meghwal pointed out that the protest coincides with the peak of the Diwali shopping season. He revealed that more than 50 trade organizations in Delhi had personally met with Rahul Gandhi and submitted written requests urging him to reschedule the demonstration.
The Minister explained that a massive gathering could paralyze the city's wholesale markets, which attract buyers from all over India. According to Meghwal, the traders fear that such a protest would:
- Force shops to shut down.
- Prevent customers from reaching business hubs.
- Cause significant financial losses during the most profitable time of the year.
Allegations of 'Anarchy' and Judicial Disregard
The Union Minister further accused the Congress leader of attempting to create an "atmosphere of anarchy" by taking grievances to the streets while legal proceedings are already underway. Specifically, he referenced the issue regarding the Election Commission and the proposed march toward the Supreme Court.
Meghwal noted that the Chief Justice had previously clarified that the proper channel for seeking justice is through petitions—a step that has already been taken and is currently being heard by the court. He questioned why the issue of impeachment is being pushed into the public sphere when it is already a matter of judicial review.
Concluding his remarks, the Minister alleged that despite being reprimanded by the Supreme Court on several occasions regarding his conduct, there has been no improvement in Rahul Gandhi's approach.