Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath criticized Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra for carrying a bag emblazoned with ‘Palestine’ during a public appearance, sparking fresh political controversy.
Yogi Adityanath’s Response
Addressing the Uttar Pradesh Assembly on Tuesday, Yogi Adityanath remarked:
“A Congress leader was roaming around in Parliament carrying a bag with Palestine written on it, while we are sending the youth of Uttar Pradesh to Israel. More than 5,600 youth of UP have gone to Israel for construction work so far.”
He further highlighted the benefits provided to UP workers in Israel, including free accommodation, food, and salaries of ₹1.5 lakh per month, with complete security assurances.
‘Palestine Bag’ Row
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s gesture drew sharp reactions from BJP leaders, with Union Minister Anurag Thakur questioning her silence on the atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh while making what he called a “fashion statement” with the Palestine-themed accessory.
In response, Priyanka hit back:
“Who is going to decide what clothes I am going to wear? This is typical patriarchy, deciding what a woman should wear.”
She also emphasized the need for dialogue with the Bangladesh government over minority issues, calling BJP’s comments “useless.”
India’s Position on Israel-Palestine
India has maintained a balanced stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict. While condemning the October 7 Hamas attacks on Israel and the loss of civilian lives, India has consistently supported a negotiated two-state solution. According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), India advocates for a sovereign and viable Palestinian state coexisting peacefully alongside Israel.
Context and Political Impact
The latest exchange underscores the political divide on foreign policy narratives ahead of the upcoming elections. Adityanath’s remarks emphasize BJP’s focus on economic opportunities in Israel, while Priyanka Gandhi’s move signals symbolic support for Palestine, appealing to different voter sentiments.
This news report is curated with insights from multiple reliable news sources.
