The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has lodged a complaint with the Election Commission of India (EC) regarding Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Shakti’ remark, alleging that it carries a ‘misogynistic’ undertone and has offended Hindu sentiments.
The complaint highlighted that using the term ‘Shakti,’ traditionally associated with female deities and women in India, in such a context is disrespectful and reveals a misogynistic tone.
Rahul Gandhi, during his address at Shivaji Park in Mumbai after concluding his ‘Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra,’ stated, “Our battle against Modi is not personal. Modi is a ‘mask’ for a ‘Shakti’ (power). He is a superficial man lacking a 56-inch chest.”
The BJP’s complaint stemmed from Gandhi’s statement that mentioned, “There is a word ‘Shakti’ in Hinduism. We are fighting against a Shakti. The soul of the King is in the EVM. This true. The soul of the king is in the EVM and every institution of the country, in ED, CBI, and Income Tax department…”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also criticized Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Shakti’ remark, stating during a rally that such statements disrespect Hindu beliefs and faith, especially with references to ‘destroying Shakti’ and ‘fighting against Shakti.’