Thu Feb 13 08:26:46 UTC 2025: ## Rahul Gandhi’s Remarks on Pre-Independence India Spark Royal Family Row

**New Delhi:** Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s assertion that only kings held power before Indian independence, leaving backward classes without rights, has ignited a furious backlash from BJP leaders with royal lineage. Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia and BJP MP Dushyant Singh, both from erstwhile royal families, accused Gandhi of historical ignorance and exploiting the past for political gain.

Gandhi made the comments during a rally in Madhya Pradesh, claiming that independence brought rights to the poor, Dalits, and backward classes. Scindia, from the Gwalior royal family, countered this, highlighting the contributions of various royal figures like Sayajirao Gaekwad of Baroda (who supported Ambedkar’s education) and Shahuji Maharaj of Kolhapur (who implemented early reservation policies). He further criticized Gandhi’s understanding of history and the Congress party’s role in suppressing the rights of marginalized communities.

Singh, whose family hails from Dholpur, echoed Scindia’s sentiments, emphasizing the social and infrastructural developments undertaken by his ancestors. He condemned Gandhi’s sweeping generalizations as reckless and historically inaccurate. Both Scindia and Singh cited examples of royal families championing social reform and progress.

Congress leader Pawan Khera responded by arguing that the good deeds of a few royals shouldn’t overshadow the injustices perpetrated by the majority. He further criticized Scindia’s family’s historical alliance with the British during the 1857 revolt and highlighted tax-free allowances received by the Gwalior dynasty before 1971. Khera’s response included a pointed reference to a poem commemorating the bravery of Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi, contrasting it with the Scindia dynasty’s actions during the revolt. The article also notes that the actions of princely states during the 1857 revolt were complex and driven by various factors beyond simple patriotism or betrayal. The ensuing debate highlights the ongoing tension between political narratives and historical interpretations of India’s past.

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