Delhi Police Crime Branch takes over probe into Parliament scuffle involving Rahul Gandhi

The Delhi Police Crime Branch has formally launched an investigation into allegations against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi following a physical altercation within the Parliament complex. The scuffle, which occurred amidst mounting tensions between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress, has become a flashpoint in the ongoing political standoff. The inquiry stems from a First Information Report (FIR) registered on Thursday at the Parliament Street Police Station.

The FIR, lodged by BJP members, accuses Rahul Gandhi of incitement and physical assault, alleging injuries to BJP MPs Pratap Chandra Sarangi and Mukesh Rajput. The BJP claims the altercation resulted in visible injuries, with Sarangi reportedly falling during the incident and later seen being transported in a wheelchair. These allegations have heightened the already tense political climate during the winter session of Parliament.

Allegations Against Rahul Gandhi and the Counterclaims

The incident unfolded against the backdrop of protests in Parliament over remarks made by Union Home Minister Amit Shah about Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. BJP MP Pratap Chandra Sarangi alleged that Rahul Gandhi pushed a senior BJP member during the confrontation, causing a chain reaction that led to Sarangi’s injury. Mukesh Rajput, another BJP MP, reportedly suffered minor injuries during the scuffle.

Rahul Gandhi has strongly denied the allegations, accusing BJP members of obstructing his path as he attempted to enter Parliament. According to Gandhi, he was subjected to verbal aggression and physical intimidation by BJP MPs, who he claims acted in a premeditated manner. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, who was reportedly pushed during the incident, also accused BJP members of deliberately creating chaos to distract from pressing legislative matters.

The Congress has demanded the release of CCTV footage from the Parliament premises to provide a factual account of the altercation. Party leaders argue that the BJP’s narrative is an attempt to shift attention from Home Minister Shah’s controversial statements, which have drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties.

Crime Branch Investigation Underway

With the FIR now in the hands of the Delhi Police Crime Branch, a thorough investigation is expected. A team led by Assistant Commissioner of Police Ramesh Lamba has been assigned to the case. The investigation will include a detailed review of CCTV footage, witness testimonies, and formal complaints filed by both parties.

Delhi Police officials have confirmed that permissions will be sought to examine the exact location within Parliament where the altercation occurred. This high-profile probe has placed additional scrutiny on parliamentary decorum and the behavior of elected representatives.

Political Implications of the Scuffle

The incident has escalated the longstanding tensions between the BJP and the Congress, further polarising the political environment. BJP leaders have criticized the Congress for what they describe as “unparliamentary conduct.” Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan accused Gandhi of “hooliganism” and questioned his ability to lead a responsible opposition.

Conversely, the Congress has dismissed the BJP’s claims as a politically motivated attempt to malign Rahul Gandhi’s reputation. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has publicly defended her brother, suggesting that the investigation is part of a broader effort to suppress dissent and intimidate opposition leaders.

Political analysts have noted that the controversy could have significant implications for parliamentary proceedings, particularly as both parties prepare for key elections in the coming months. The BJP is expected to use the incident to reinforce its narrative of Congress misconduct, while the Congress is likely to emphasize the BJP’s alleged misuse of power.

Broader Questions on Parliamentary Decorum

The incident raises pressing questions about the standards of conduct within India‘s Parliament. Observers argue that the escalating tensions between the ruling party and the opposition are eroding the sanctity of legislative proceedings. As the Crime Branch continues its investigation, all eyes remain on how this episode will influence public perception of both major political parties.

The Crime Branch’s probe into the Parliament scuffle involving Rahul Gandhi underscores the deepening political divide in India. The outcome of this investigation will likely set a precedent for how such disputes are handled in the future, particularly in a climate of increasing political polarization. As the case unfolds, it remains to be seen whether it will lead to greater accountability or further entrench the divisions in Indian politics.