Israel's 'genocidal' actions in Gaza need to stop:
Priyanka Gandhi
Published 26 July 2024 2:40 PM
New Delhi: In a powerful condemnation, Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vardar described Israel's military actions in Gaza as "unacceptable" and "genocidal". She urged the international community to denounce the ongoing offensive. "Speaking up for the innocent lives lost in Gaza, including civilians, healthcare workers, journalists, and children, is no longer sufficient," she asserted in a post on X. "The world must collectively condemn the relentless genocide occurring in Gaza," she added
Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vardar has delivered a scathing rebuke of Israel's military operations in Gaza, labelling them as "unacceptable" and "genocidal". She called on the global community to take a firm stand against the ongoing violence. "It is imperative to voice our concerns over the innocent lives being lost in Gaza – among them civilians, healthcare workers, journalists, and children," she expressed on X. "However, mere words are not enough.
The world must unite in unequivocally condemning the brutal genocide unfolding in Gaza," she insisted.
"Their actions defy the principles of civility and morality that our world claims to uphold. Instead, we witness the Israeli Prime Minister receiving a standing ovation in the US Congress. He describes it as 'a clash between barbarism and civilization,' and while he's right about the clash, it is his government that embodies barbarism. Their actions are shamefully supported by much of the Western world. It is a disheartening sight to behold," Gandhi expressed.
Priyanka Gandhi has consistently criticised the international community for supporting Israel's actions in Gaza. In February, she declared that all norms of justice, humanity, and international decorum had been violated, accusing the global community of ignoring the genocide in Gaza. "All rules of justice, humanity and international decorum have been broken. Humanity has been bled, and each one of us will pay an unimaginable price for this someday unless we raise our voices and stand up for what is right today," she stated on 22 February.
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra throws ’Shahenshah’ jibe at PM Modi after Durbar Hall renaming
On July 25, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra shared her thoughts on the recent renaming of two iconic halls within Rashtrapati Bhavan by President Draupadi Murmu. The Durbar Hall has been renamed Ganatantra Mandap, and Ashok Hall is now Ashok Mandap.
Commenting on this decision, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra remarked, “The notion of a ‘Durbar’ is misplaced; it suggests the presence of a ‘Shahenshah’.” Her reference to the term 'Shahenshah' aligns with her previous critiques of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whom she has dubbed as an emperor-like figure.
The official statement regarding the renaming of these halls emphasized that Rashtrapati Bhavan, as the residence and office of the President of India, stands as a symbol of the nation's rich heritage and holds immense value for the people of India."Accordingly, President Droupadi Murmu is pleased to rename two of the important halls of Rashtrapati Bhavan – namely, 'Durbar Hall' and 'Ashok Hall' – as 'Ganatantra Mandap' and 'Ashok Mandap' respectively," said the statement.
The Significance of 'Durbar' in Indian History
The term 'Durbar' has deep roots in Indian history, referring to the grand courts and assemblies of Indian rulers, as well as the British colonial administration. These gatherings were not only centres of power and governance but also stages for significant ceremonies and celebrations. One such prominent venue is the ‘Durbar Hall’ in the Rashtrapati Bhavan, where crucial national events, including the presentation of National Awards, are held.
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### Political Jibes and Election Campaigns
During the Lok Sabha Election 2024 campaign, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra stirred the political pot by referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a 'Shahenshah' – a term evocative of an emperor who lives in splendour, disconnected from the common people. This pointed critique was aimed at highlighting what she perceived as the Prime Minister's inability to relate to the everyday struggles of the masses.
### The 'Shahenshah' versus 'Shahzaada' Narrative
Priyanka Gandhi's remark was a direct retort to Prime Minister Modi's frequent references to her brother, Rahul Gandhi, as ‘Shahzaada’ or prince. She passionately defended her brother, describing his dedication and efforts to connect with the populace through the Bharat Jodo Yatra. “They call my brother Shehzada. I want to tell them how this Shahzada walked 4,000 km from Kanyakumari to Kashmir to listen to your problems…he met my sisters, brothers, farmers, and labourers and asked them what problems they have…,” she declared at a rally in Banaskantha, Gujarat.
### Modi's Rebuttal: The 'Sehanshah' Response
Prime Minister Modi, known for his sharp retorts, responded to these jibes by redefining the term 'Shahenshah'. He claimed that he was not an emperor but rather a 'Sehanshah', a person who endures and tolerates. In an interview with INDIA TV on May 13, he remarked, “I have heard, I was told ‘Shahenshah’. I tolerate so many abuses from them, then it is natural that I am 'Sehanshah'.”
This exchange of barbs between Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Prime Minister Modi not only reflects the intense political rivalry but also the rich tapestry of language and historical references that colour Indian politics.
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