Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday launched a strong attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, demanding that he apologize for the “derogatory words” allegedly used against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his late mother during his ongoing Voter Adhikar Yatra in Bihar. Shah stated that such language reflects the lowest level of politics and claimed that “no abuse can stop the lotus from blooming.”

Amit Shah’s Demand for Apology

Speaking after inaugurating the newly built Brahmaputra unit of the Assam Raj Bhavan, Shah said that if Rahul Gandhi had “any sense of shame left,” he should immediately apologize for the remarks made during his rally. He further added that the people of India view the Congress party with “hatred” due to its negative politics.

Shah reminded the audience that he, along with other senior BJP leaders, had criticized Gandhi in Parliament the previous day for similar reasons. According to the Home Minister, Gandhi’s political strategies have consistently deteriorated, and the recent incident marks a new low.

Controversial Video From Darbhanga

The controversy erupted after a video surfaced from Darbhanga, where an unidentified person was allegedly seen using abusive language against Modi from a stage prepared for Gandhi’s rally. Reports said that Rahul Gandhi, Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav later left the same location on motorcycles, heading towards Muzaffarpur.

The BJP has treated the incident as a direct reflection of Gandhi’s political campaign, claiming that such incidents cannot be dismissed as coincidental. Shah emphasized that such behavior undermines democratic values.

“Ghuspethiya Bachao Yatra”

Shah described Gandhi’s Voter Adhikar Yatra as a “Ghuspethiya Bachao Yatra,” claiming that Congress is focusing on safeguarding its vote bank rather than protecting national interests.

“Elections are the soul of democracy, but if infiltrators are allowed to disturb systems, how can the country remain secure?” Shah asked during his address. He accused Congress of encouraging divisive politics while BJP focuses on strengthening India’s global image under Modi’s leadership.

“Abuses Cannot Stop the Lotus”

Amit Shah asserted that Narendra Modi continues to be respected across the world for his leadership. He said that the repeated insults and abuses from Congress leaders cannot diminish Modi’s image nor stop the BJP’s electoral victories.

“No matter how many derogatory words are used, no abuse can stop the lotus from blooming,” Shah declared, drawing applause from party workers.

Inauguration of Assam Raj Bhavan Unit

Before addressing the political controversy, Amit Shah inaugurated the newly constructed Brahmaputra unit of the Assam Raj Bhavan in Guwahati. He described the inauguration as “historic,” noting that the structure symbolizes the journey of the northeast from decades of struggle to the vision of “Ashtalakshmi,” representing prosperity in the region.

Shah highlighted that the northeast has transformed under the Modi government, with significant investments in infrastructure, healthcare, and connectivity. He reiterated the government’s commitment to making the northeast a driver of national growth.

Other Key Inaugurations

During the same visit, Shah virtually inaugurated the newly established National Cyber Forensic Laboratory – North East at the Lachit Barphukan Police Academy in Dergaon. He also launched and laid foundation stones for multiple development projects of ITBP, SSB, and Assam Rifles. These included residential complexes, barracks, and hospitals.

The Home Minister underlined the importance of modern infrastructure for security forces, stating that better facilities will directly enhance their morale and effectiveness in border security operations.

Religious Ceremonies and Cultural Events

Before the official program, Amit Shah participated in religious rituals at the Raj Bhavan premises. Amid chanting of Vedic mantras, he performed puja inside a temple located within the complex. He also carried out gau pujan (cow worship) and planted a Sindoor tree as part of cultural traditions.

Assam Governor Lakshmi Prasad Acharya and Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma welcomed Shah at the venue and accompanied him during the events.

BJP vs. Congress: Political Context

The clash between BJP and Congress has intensified as Bihar prepares for upcoming political battles. Rahul Gandhi’s Voter Adhikar Yatra has been projected by Congress and its allies as a campaign to protect voting rights, while BJP portrays it as an attempt to shield illegal immigrants.

Shah’s statements underline the BJP’s strategy of attacking Gandhi personally while highlighting Modi’s global stature. By linking Congress’s actions to “vote bank politics” and infiltrators, BJP seeks to consolidate nationalist sentiments among voters.

Rahul Gandhi Under Pressure

Rahul Gandhi’s campaign has already faced criticism from BJP leaders, and the alleged derogatory remarks incident has placed him further under pressure. BJP leaders insist that an apology is the only way to restore political decorum.

Congress, however, has maintained silence on the matter, neither confirming nor denying the authenticity of the controversial video. Analysts suggest that the party may attempt to shift focus back to its campaign issues rather than engage in a prolonged controversy.

National Implications

The controversy is not limited to Bihar’s politics but carries national implications. With the 2025 political calendar heating up, every statement made by senior leaders is being amplified across the country. Shah’s demand for an apology highlights how the BJP intends to hold Rahul Gandhi accountable for every action during his yatra.

Observers believe that this incident may further polarize voters, with BJP reinforcing its narrative of nationalism and Congress positioning itself as a protector of democratic rights.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s sharp remarks against Rahul Gandhi have set the tone for a heated political season. By demanding an apology for the alleged abusive remarks directed at PM Modi and his late mother, Shah has intensified the BJP-Congress confrontation.

Shah’s assurance that “no abuse can stop the lotus from blooming” reflects BJP’s confidence ahead of elections, while his inaugurations in Assam highlight the government’s parallel focus on regional development.