Political Turmoil Erupts Over Rahul Gandhi's Remarks on Manusmriti

The political landscape has been shaken by Rahul Gandhi's recent comments on Manusmriti, which have reignited debates about women's rights and religious traditions in India. His remarks, made during a discussion on women's status, have drawn sharp responses from the BJP, who accuse him of targeting Hindu customs. Meanwhile, Congress defends Gandhi's statements as a call for women's empowerment and equality. As the controversy unfolds, it highlights the deep-seated tensions between political narratives surrounding gender and tradition. The ongoing discourse raises questions about the intersection of religion, culture, and women's rights in contemporary India.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 1, 2026, 16:35 IST

Political Debate Ignited by Rahul Gandhi's Statement

A fresh wave of political discourse has emerged following Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's comments regarding Manusmriti, sparking intense discussions about women's rights and freedoms. This debate intensified after Gandhi referenced Manusmriti during a discussion on women's status at the 'Students' Voice' event held in Pune on August 22.

What Did Rahul Gandhi Say About Manusmriti?

In his remarks, Rahul Gandhi highlighted the notion within Manusmriti that places women under the authority of male relatives. He criticized this perspective as detrimental to women's freedom, asserting that women are not the property or identity of men but possess their own distinct identities. He urged women to raise their voices against patriarchal ideologies.

BJP's Response to Gandhi's Statement

Following Gandhi's comments, the BJP seized the opportunity to turn the issue into a political battleground. BJP leaders accused the Congress leader of targeting Hindu religious traditions and ancient texts. Conversely, Congress maintained that the essence of Gandhi's statement revolved around women's rights, equality, and the fight against patriarchy.

BJP's Counterattack

The BJP has consistently responded to Rahul Gandhi's remarks, questioning his understanding of Manusmriti and suggesting he needs to better comprehend Indian scriptures and traditions. BJP MP Nishikant Dubey referenced specific verses from Manusmriti, advising Gandhi to read and understand the text thoroughly.

Controversy Escalates with Shankaracharya's Comments

Disagreements between Rahul Gandhi and religious leaders regarding Manusmriti have surfaced before. Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati, the Shankaracharya of Jyotirmath, previously expressed strong objections to Gandhi's comments about Manusmriti. Following his statements, the BJP lent political support to the criticism of Gandhi, while Congress claimed that his remarks were taken out of context.

Political Interpretations of the Controversy

As the controversy unfolds, it is viewed as more than just a single statement. The ongoing debate surrounding Manusmriti, Hindu traditions, women's rights, and the Constitution has resurfaced among political parties.

Accusations of 'Electoral Hindu' Politics

With the controversy escalating, BJP supporters have directed political jabs at Congress and Rahul Gandhi, labeling them as 'electoral Hindus.' Meanwhile, Congress supporters argue that the BJP is attempting to inject a religious narrative into the issue.

Divergent Political Narratives

The political interpretations of the same statement vary significantly between the two factions. The BJP links it to Congress's stance on Hindu religious traditions, while Congress frames it as a discussion on women's rights and social equality.

Congress Faces Scrutiny Over Past Videos

During the controversy, the BJP shared an old video of Rahul Gandhi questioning the choices and freedoms of women who wear hijabs. This led to accusations that Gandhi applies different standards to various religious issues.

Yogi Adityanath Joins the Fray

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also weighed in, deeming Rahul Gandhi's comments offensive to Indian cultural traditions and advising him to understand the Vedas and Indian customs. The BJP argued that the respect for women should not be viewed through the lens of a single text or religious tradition.

The Ongoing Manusmriti vs. Constitution Debate

The controversy surrounding Manusmriti is not new to Indian politics. Debates comparing the Constitution and Manusmriti have been ongoing for years. Rahul Gandhi has previously referenced Manusmriti in the context of the Constitution during parliamentary discussions.

Current Focus of Political Debate

Currently, two main perspectives are evident in the controversy. Congress presents Rahul Gandhi's remarks as a political message against patriarchy and in favor of women's freedom, while the BJP views it as an attack on Hindu religious traditions. The Manusmriti issue has once again become a focal point in political discourse, and it remains to be seen whether this controversy will escalate further or evolve into a broader discussion on women's rights and social equality.