BJP Compares Indira Gandhi's Emergency With PM Modi's Approach Towards Students
BJP contrasts Emergency-era actions with Modi's student outreach.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for forgiving students who allegedly used abusive language against him during recent protests over the NEET paper leak, describing his response as an example of compassionate and statesman-like leadership. Party leaders contrasted Modi's reaction with that of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi during the Emergency, claiming that while the Congress government resorted to strict measures against dissent, Modi had chosen forgiveness and guidance over retaliation.
The BJP's remarks came a day after Prime Minister Modi shared a video message on his official Instagram account addressing the country's youth. Referring to the protests held at Jantar Mantar, the Prime Minister said some "mischievous youngsters" had used language that was inappropriate and contrary to the values of a civilised society. He noted that not only he but also his late mother had been subjected to abusive remarks. Despite this, Modi said mistakes are a part of growing up and expressed his desire to forgive the students, urging society to embrace the same spirit of understanding.
Reacting to the Prime Minister's message, BJP spokesperson Pratul Shahdeo said Modi had demonstrated exceptional generosity by treating the students with compassion instead of anger. He claimed that although abusive language had been directed at both the Prime Minister and his late mother, Modi chose to view the protesters as misguided youngsters who should be encouraged to contribute positively to nation-building. Shahdeo also drew a comparison with the Emergency imposed during Indira Gandhi's tenure, asserting that the Prime Minister's response reflected a starkly different approach to handling public protests.
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Several other BJP leaders echoed similar sentiments. Party spokesperson Shahnawaz Hussain said Modi addressed the nation not only as Prime Minister but also as a guardian concerned about the country's youth, adding that the issue should not be politicised. Bihar BJP President Sanjay Saraogi described Modi as a leader with a compassionate heart, saying the Prime Minister had responded with forgiveness despite the offensive remarks made during the protests. Senior BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi also praised Modi's response, describing it as a lesson in leadership and public conduct while alleging that the Prime Minister has repeatedly been the target of organised campaigns aimed at tarnishing his image.
The BJP leaders' statements have added a political dimension to the aftermath of the NEET-related protests, during which demonstrators raised concerns over alleged irregularities in the examination process. While the party has projected the Prime Minister's remarks as a message of reconciliation and restraint, the comparison with the Emergency is likely to fuel further political debate between the BJP and the opposition. The controversy underscores the continuing political significance of student protests and the broader discourse surrounding leadership, public dissent and democratic engagement.
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