The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of manhandling a pregnant journalist during a protest on Tuesday. The journalist, identified as Richa Parashar, is reportedly three months pregnant and was covering the event when the alleged incident occurred. BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari shared a video of Parashar recounting her experience, claiming that she was hospitalised following the confrontation.

Bhandari, in a post on social media platform X, stated, “Three-month pregnant female journalist Richa Parashar was thrashed by Rahul Gandhi while covering the protest! She is currently admitted to the hospital, and she recounts the horror!” The spokesperson further alleged that Gandhi’s actions were indicative of his character, labelling him a “goon” and questioning the sincerity of his advocacy for women’s rights.

During a press conference, Bhandari detailed the alleged encounter, asserting that the video evidence shows Gandhi using his elbow to shove Parashar, which caused her to fall. He claimed that her condition deteriorated to the extent that she required hospitalisation. According to Bhandari, Parashar was merely reporting on the protest and not engaging with Gandhi directly.

BJP Criticises Congress Leadership’s Response

In his remarks, Bhandari expressed concern over the lack of support from Congress members during the incident. He alleged that no Congress worker came forward to assist Parashar and that instead, party members attempted to discredit her account. He stated, “Rahul Gandhi, who speaks of ‘smashing the patriarchy’, behaved like a goon today.” Bhandari further accused Gandhi of displaying aggression towards his own party members, referencing an earlier incident where Gandhi allegedly shoved Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar.

The BJP spokesperson’s comments extended to the Congress party’s handling of other serious allegations, including claims of sexual harassment involving Congress MP Bimole Akoijam. Bhandari questioned why Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi had remained silent on such matters while allegedly resorting to violence against a journalist. He stated, “That is why Rahul and Priyanka remain silent when a JNU professor sexually harasses eleven girls, yet they grab a female journalist, who was merely covering their protest, by the arm and elbow, throwing her to the ground.” This statement aimed to highlight what Bhandari perceived as hypocrisy within the Congress leadership.

In light of the incident, Bhandari urged women to recognise the implications of the alleged assault, referencing Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s slogan, “Ladki Hoon, Lad Sakti Hoon.” He encouraged women across the country to reflect on the actions of the Congress party and the authenticity of their claims regarding women’s empowerment. “Today, the women of this country should see the true face of the Congress party,” he added, expressing hope for Parashar’s swift recovery and return to her journalistic duties.

Support for the Journalist Following Incident

Following the allegations, BJP Delhi state vice-president Rajesh Bhatia reported that he had received information about the incident from Parashar’s sister. He stated that he promptly visited the hospital to offer assistance. Bhatia’s involvement underscores the BJP’s commitment to supporting the journalist during her recovery and responding to the situation with urgency.

The incident has sparked widespread attention, with various media outlets covering the allegations made by the BJP. As the story develops, it remains to be seen how the Congress party will respond to these serious claims and whether any further actions will be taken regarding the treatment of journalists during political events.

As of now, the focus remains on the well-being of Richa Parashar and the implications of the alleged incident on the political landscape. The BJP continues to call for accountability from the Congress party, while the public awaits further updates on the situation.

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