After Rahul Gandhi delivered a fiery speech taking on the RSS, the BJP and Prime Minister Modi, the ruling party's top brass took aim at the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha on Monday. Here is what some of them said.
Amit Shah's fierce counter
Home Minister Amit Shah lashed out at Rahul Gandhi, demanding an apology for his "not Hindu" jibe. Shah thundered, "He has categorically said that those who call themselves Hindus engage in violence. Crores of people in the country proudly call themselves Hindus. Are they all speaking about violence?" He insisted Gandhi "should apologise" to the House and the nation.
Nirmala Sitharaman's double-edged attack
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unleashed a scathing critique. "Sheer audacity of LoP Rahul Gandhi to call everyone who calls himself Hindu as 'hinsak'/violent shows Congress' hatred and contempt towards Hindus," she posted. Sitharaman added, "Congress and Rahul Gandhi appeasement politics starts and ends with Hindu hate."
‘Lies + Hindu hatred = Rahul Ji in Parliament’, says Nadda
BJP Chief J P Nadda didn't pull punches. "First day, worst show! Lies + Hindu hatred = Rahul Gandhi Ji in Parliament," he posted. Nadda mocked Gandhi as a "Third Time Fail LoP" with a "knack for agitated, flawed logic."
Ashwini Vaishnaw highlights irresponsibility
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw took aim at Gandhi's political legacy. "Gandhi has always enjoyed power without responsibility. Now he holds a responsible position. But he made a most irresponsible speech today," Vaishnaw declared, contrasting Gandhi with past BJP leaders in the LoP role.
Devendra Fadnavis demands apology
Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis didn't mince words. "Rahul Gandhi has made wrong, objectionable and insulting remarks towards the entire Hindu community," he fumed. "He should take back his words and apologise," demanded Fadnavis.
Chirag Paswan's call for decorum
Union Minister Chirag Paswan focused on parliamentary dignity. He accused Gandhi of "making fun of Lord Shiva and his devotees." Paswan stressed, "Parliament has its dignity. You can give political speeches and criticise (government) policies. But making personal comments against someone and hurting the faith of the people will not be tolerated."