Congress MP Rahul Gandhi has issued a clarification following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's criticism of his 'Shakti' remark, which has sparked controversy ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.
In a post on social platform X, Gandhi responded to Modi's remarks, stating, "Modi ji does not like my words. He tries to twist my statements and change the meaning, because he knows that I have spoken a deep truth."
Gandhi's initial remark, made at Mumbai's Shivaji Park, questioned the electronic voting machines (EVM) and the power dynamics in Hinduism. He had stated, "There is a word 'Shakti' (might) in Hinduism. We are fighting against a Shakti (might of the state)."
Defending his statement, Gandhi emphasized, "The ‘Shakti’ I mentioned against whom we are fighting, its mask is none other than Modiji." He criticized the centralization of power and alleged capture of various institutions by the current government.
Gandhi further elaborated, stating, "It is a power that has captured India's voice, institutions, CBI, I-T department, ED, Election Commission, media, industries, and constitutional structure."
Earlier, PM Modi had responded to Gandhi's remarks during a speech, asserting, "For me, every daughter, mother, and sister is a personification of Shakti." He challenged those questioning 'Shakti', stating his readiness to "sacrifice my life for Shakti."
The exchange underscores the intensifying political rhetoric ahead of the upcoming elections, with both leaders presenting contrasting views on power and empowerment.