Parliament scuffle: FIR against Rahul Gandhi now under Delhi Police crime branch

The Delhi Police has transferred the case against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to the Crime Branch following allegations of "physical assault and incitement" during a scuffle in Parliament. This development comes after tensions escalated on Thursday when Members of Parliament (MPs) from the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition bloc, INDIA, clashed while trying to enter the Lok Sabha chamber. The incident occurred during competing protests over remarks alleged to insult Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.

Two BJP MPs, Pratap Chandra Sarangi and Mukesh Rajput, were injured in the commotion and later hospitalized. According to the BJP, Rahul Gandhi pushed them while attempting to gain entry into the House. The Delhi Police subsequently registered a First Information Report (FIR) against Gandhi under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including 117 (abetment of the commission of an offense), 115 (abetment of an offense punishable with imprisonment), 125 (endangering life), 131 (criminal force), 351 (criminal intimidation), and Section 3(5) of the BNS.

The transfer of the case to the Crime Branch highlights the seriousness of the allegations. A senior police officer stated, "The Crime Branch will now thoroughly investigate this case. We are reviewing footage of the incident and assessing complaints from both sides." The Congress party has also filed a counter-complaint, alleging that BJP lawmakers misbehaved with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge.

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Conflicting allegations and political reactions

Rahul Gandhi has denied the allegations, asserting that BJP MPs blocked his entry to Parliament and threatened him. He accused the ruling party of using the incident as a diversion to shift attention away from pressing issues, such as allegations involving the Adani Group. Addressing reporters, Gandhi remarked, "This is another attempt by the BJP to create a distraction. Instead of discussing serious matters, they level baseless allegations."

The incident has triggered a war of words between the Congress and BJP. Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra criticized the BJP, stating that the police investigation reflected the ruling party’s "desperation." Speaking to reporters, she said, "The entire country is watching this farce. Multiple cases have been registered against Rahul Gandhi. It shows how desperate the BJP has become."

On the other hand, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey condemned Gandhi’s actions, accusing him of "hooliganism." In a public statement, Dubey said, "Such behavior is unbecoming of a senior leader. The BJP will not tolerate these actions."

Broader implications and ongoing investigations

The acting Speaker of the Lok Sabha has requested a thorough investigation into the incident to ensure accountability. Parliament’s security footage will play a crucial role in determining the sequence of events. Meanwhile, doctors treating the injured MPs have confirmed that their condition is improving.

The Delhi Police has emphasized its commitment to an unbiased investigation. "Both complaints are being scrutinized, and action will be taken based on evidence," a police officer said.

The incident has further intensified political rivalries in the country, with both the BJP and Congress using the scuffle to bolster their narratives. As the Crime Branch delves deeper into the case, the outcome of the investigation could have significant political and legal repercussions for all parties involved.