The BJP has strongly criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi following his assertion that the Opposition is battling not only the BJP but also the Indian State. Union Health Minister and BJP president JP Nadda responded by claiming that Gandhi's comments have revealed the "ugly truth" about the Congress party. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman questioned Gandhi's commitment to the Constitution, asking why he carries a copy if he believes the Opposition is fighting against the State.
Gandhi made these remarks during the inauguration of Congress's new headquarters in Delhi, where he criticized both the BJP and its ideological affiliate, the RSS. He stated, "Do not think that we are fighting a fair fight... We are now fighting the BJP, the RSS, and the Indian State itself," emphasizing that these entities have captured all institutions in the country.
Nadda accused Gandhi of having connections with urban naxals and a "deep state" intent on undermining India, asserting that everything Gandhi has done contributes to dividing society. Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri suggested that Gandhi should seek help for his mental stability, while BJP spokesperson Amit Malviya claimed Gandhi has declared war against the Indian State.