The Congress party has strongly condemned the FIR filed against its leader Rahul Gandhi in connection with a scuffle in Parliament, calling it a diversionary tactic by the BJP-led government. The FIR, filed by BJP MPs, accuses Gandhi of physical assault and incitement during the altercation, which left two BJP lawmakers injured. Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal dismissed the allegations, asserting that the case is an attempt to distract from Gandhi’s vocal opposition to Home Minister Amit Shah’s remarks on BR Ambedkar. He labeled the FIR as a “badge of honour” for Gandhi, who, according to Venugopal, is already facing 26 politically motivated FIRs.

The scuffle occurred on Thursday near Parliament’s Makar Dwar, where concurrent protests were being held by members of the ruling NDA and the opposition INDIA bloc. According to BJP MPs, Gandhi physically intimidated them, while Congress leaders accused BJP legislators of blocking Gandhi’s path and shoving Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, injuring his knee. Both parties have filed complaints against each other, with the BJP seeking Gandhi’s indictment under charges including voluntary causing grievous hurt and criminal intimidation, while the Congress accused BJP leaders of misbehavior and assault.

Venugopal also criticized the Delhi Police for alleged bias, questioning why no action had been taken on complaints by women Congress MPs against BJP leaders who allegedly assaulted them. The Congress maintains that the incident highlights BJP’s casteist and authoritarian approach, accusing the ruling party of using law enforcement agencies to silence opposition voices. Despite the controversy, Rahul Gandhi has vowed to continue his fight against what he calls the BJP’s political vendetta and misuse of power.