An FIR has been filed against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in Assam’s Guwahati over his controversial comment about the “Indian state.” The First Information Report (FIR) was registered at the Pan Bazar Police station in Guwahati, the largest city in Assam, which is ruled by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The complaint was filed by Monjit Chetia, who accused Gandhi of making remarks that endangered the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India.
The FIR has been registered under sections 152 and 197(1)(d) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which deal with acts that may harm the unity and security of the nation. Chetia’s complaint highlights Gandhi’s statement, which he made during the inauguration of the Congress’ new headquarters in Delhi on Wednesday. Gandhi, reacting to RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat’s comment about India’s ‘true independence,’ said, “My fight is against the Indian state itself.”
The complainant claims that Gandhi’s statement went beyond permissible free speech and accused him of inciting subversive activities and rebellion against the Indian state. Chetia contended that Gandhi’s words could create a dangerous narrative that might fuel unrest, separatist sentiments, and delegitimize the authority of the state.
Chetia also alleged that the Congress leader’s comment stemmed from frustration over repeated electoral defeats and a desire to undermine public confidence in the government and democratic institutions. The complainant expressed concern that, as the Leader of the Opposition, Gandhi has a responsibility to foster national unity, not incite disaffection and rebellion through provocative statements.
The FIR has sparked debate across the political spectrum, with some defending Gandhi’s right to free speech, while others criticize his comment as harmful to India’s unity. The case is expected to escalate as it progresses through legal channels.
Sources By Agencies