Mon Dec 16 11:29:53 UTC 2024: ## Priyanka Gandhi’s Palestine Bag Sparks Political Firestorm in Indian Parliament

**New Delhi, December 17, 2024** – Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s arrival in Parliament today carrying a handbag emblazoned with a “Palestine” tag ignited a fierce political debate. While Gandhi has been a vocal critic of Israel’s actions in Gaza, describing them as “barbaric and inhuman,” her choice of accessory was met with strong condemnation from the BJP.

BJP leaders accused Gandhi of “crass communal posturing” and “communal virtue signaling,” arguing that her focus on Palestine overshadowed other pressing domestic issues. BJP MP Anurag Thakur questioned her silence on the plight of Hindu Bangladeshis, stating that Parliament should address the concerns of all 1.4 billion Indians. Amit Malviya, head of the BJP’s IT cell, went further, claiming the Congress party is becoming a new “Muslim League,” referencing a historical political party. Other BJP MPs dismissed the gesture as a publicity stunt by a politician facing public rejection.

Gandhi retorted to her critics, urging them to address the atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh instead of making “stupid comments.” She has previously called for international pressure on Israel to halt its military offensive, which she characterized as a violation of international law.

The incident comes a day after Gandhi hosted the Palestine embassy representative at her residence, where he congratulated her on her recent Lok Sabha victory and called for India to lead ceasefire efforts in the ongoing conflict.

India’s official stance remains committed to a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar reiterated this commitment in Parliament last week, highlighting India’s humanitarian aid to Palestine, including $5 million to UNRWA and 70 metric tons of relief supplies. While India condemned the Hamas attacks on Israel in October, it has also expressed concern for the civilian casualties in Gaza, where the death toll has surpassed 40,000. India’s relationship with Palestine dates back to 1974, when it became the first non-Arab nation to recognize the PLO.

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