Rahul Gandhi Assails Pralhad Joshi Over Support for Bilkis Bano Case Convicts
The Congress leader targeted the Education Minister's previous stance regarding the release of 11 life-term prisoners. Gandhi criticized the selection of a minister who supported individuals involved in the 2002 Gujarat riots.
Political Clash Over Ministerial Records
Rahul Gandhi sparked a new wave of political friction by labeling Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi a defender of convicts. The grievance stems from the minister's historical support for the premature release of prisoners involved in high-profile criminal cases from the 2002 Gujarat riots.
The Bilkis Bano Controversy
The core of the dispute involves 11 men who were originally sentenced to life imprisonment. These individuals were convicted for the gang-rape of Bilkis Bano and the murder of several members of her family during the communal violence in Gujarat. Gandhi specifically highlighted that:
- Joshi publicly stood by the decision to grant these men early release.
- The Congress leadership views this endorsement as a disqualification for someone overseeing the nation's educational system.
- The opposition asserts that such positions undermine the moral authority of the ministry.
The controversy resurfaces as opposition parties scrutinize the backgrounds of cabinet appointees, linking past legislative or public defense of criminals to current administrative roles. Gandhi's remarks aim to challenge the ethical framework of the executive branch regarding justice for riot victims.
Source: NDTV — Top Stories
