New Delhi: Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi has renewed his challenge to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for an open public debate following the latter’s controversial remarks describing certain ideological groups as “dimagi Naxals”.
The Congress leader’s challenge came a day after Modi warned that ideological supporters of Naxalism had infiltrated several organisations, including political parties, and were attempting to influence people against the Constitution and democracy.
Reacting to the Prime Minister’s remarks, Gandhi referred to Modi’s Diwali celebrations with Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar district. He questioned whether the soldiers supported the Prime Minister’s statements and challenged him to debate the issue publicly.
In a post on X, Gandhi said the expressions of the personnel during the address suggested that they were unconvinced by the Prime Minister’s claims. He reiterated his willingness to debate Modi on who was anti-national and who was being controlled by foreign forces.
Gandhi also asserted that the Prime Minister would find it difficult to face security personnel after such a debate. He maintained that his challenge remained open, irrespective of the time or location.
What Did PM Modi Say About ‘Dimagi Naxals’?
Modi celebrated Diwali with CRPF personnel at a camp in Karanpur, located in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar district, on Sunday.
Addressing the security personnel, the Prime Minister said that although armed Maoist groups had suffered major setbacks, the threat of Naxalism had not completely disappeared.
He warned that ideological supporters of Naxalism, whom he described as “dimagi Naxals”, had established influence in various organisations. He also alleged that such groups were encouraging people to act against India’s Constitution and democratic institutions.
The Prime Minister called for identifying and defeating these elements, stressing that the fight against Naxalism must continue beyond the elimination of armed groups.
PM’s Earlier Warnings
The remarks follow the Centre’s March 31 declaration that India had been freed from the Naxal menace after several Maoist leaders and cadres were eliminated and hundreds of others surrendered.
Modi had also raised the issue during his Independence Day address in August, warning that ideological supporters of Naxalism continued to pose a challenge despite the decline of armed insurgency.
