Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday criticised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over his remarks on the Manusmriti, accusing him of denouncing India's traditions and heritage. Adityanath said Gandhi should be accountable to the country in his capacity as the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha and alleged that he had “ruined” the role entrusted to him. Adityanath made the remarks while addressing an event in Rae Bareli to mark the 222nd birth anniversary of Rana Beni Madhav Baksh Singh, a prominent leader associated with the 1857 uprising.

The chief minister used the occasion to target Gandhi's comments and questioned the Congress leader's approach towards India's historical and cultural traditions. The controversy centres on Gandhi's remarks concerning the Manusmriti, an ancient Sanskrit text that has been the subject of longstanding debate over its social and legal prescriptions. Critics of the text have particularly objected to provisions associated with caste and social hierarchy, while political and cultural debates over its place in Indian history have frequently become contentious.

Taking aim at Gandhi, Adityanath said the Congress leader should be judged differently because of the constitutional position he occupies. “Rahul ji, the country does not have any expectations from you as an individual. But as the Leader of Opposition in India's Parliament, the country's highest panchayat, you are accountable to the country's democracy,” he said. Adityanath argued that Gandhi's position carries responsibilities extending beyond his individual political views.

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By invoking the office of the Leader of the Opposition, the Uttar Pradesh chief minister said Gandhi should demonstrate accountability towards the country and its democratic institutions. He also accused the Congress leader of speaking against India's heritage and traditions through his remarks on the Manusmriti. The exchange adds to the continuing political contest between the BJP and Congress over questions of India's history, culture, social practices and constitutional values. The Manusmriti has repeatedly featured in political debates, with Congress leaders and other critics highlighting its controversial social prescriptions, while BJP leaders and supporters have frequently accused opponents of insulting Hindu traditions or India's civilisational heritage.

Adityanath's remarks came during a public event commemorating Rana Beni Madhav Baksh Singh, linking the political criticism to a broader discussion of India's historical legacy. His attack on Gandhi is likely to intensify the ongoing debate over the Manusmriti and the responsibilities of the Leader of the Opposition. The comments also underline how historical and cultural issues continue to feature prominently in political exchanges between the BJP and Congress.

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