Patna — Rahul Gandhi, the leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha, is facing criticism for allegedly disrespecting the national anthem during a Congress party event in Patna. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) shared a video of the incident from the “Samvidhan Suraksha Sammelan” event, claiming Gandhi did not stand straight or show proper respect during the anthem.

The video shows Gandhi waving and greeting party workers while the national anthem played. However, he later stands straight and gestures to the audience to follow suit. The BJP has seized on this moment, accusing Gandhi of insulting the national anthem and disrespecting the Constitution, even at an event dedicated to its protection.

BJP spokespersons allege this is part of a larger pattern of disrespect for national institutions, citing Gandhi’s recent statement about his party’s struggle against the “Indian state.” They claim this behavior reflects the Congress party’s mindset.

The Congress party has defended Gandhi, dismissing the allegations as “concocted and manufactured.” Congress leader Ajay Rai stated that Gandhi has always held the utmost respect for the country and its Constitution, denying any wrongdoing in the video. He added, “The BJP has a habit of spreading lies to defame him. There is no truth in the video.”

The incident follows a statement made by a Congress MP the previous day, who claimed the party’s fight extends beyond the BJP and RSS to include the Indian state, a statement that has also drawn criticism.