Protest Erupts in Bhopal Over Rahul Gandhi's Controversial Remarks

In Bhopal, a group of para-sports athletes and individuals with disabilities protested against Rahul Gandhi's derogatory remarks made during a recent speech. They demanded an apology from the Congress leader, emphasizing the need for respectful language towards the disabled community. The protest highlights the ongoing struggle for recognition and respect faced by differently-abled individuals in society. Minister Vishwas Sarang also condemned Gandhi's comments, stating they insulted not only the disabled but also Congress party members. This incident has sparked a broader conversation about the treatment of disabled individuals in political discourse.
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Protest Erupts in Bhopal Over Rahul Gandhi's Controversial Remarks

Protest Against Offensive Comments

A group of para-sports athletes and individuals with disabilities staged a protest in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, on Friday, opposing remarks made by opposition leader Rahul Gandhi. They submitted a memorandum to the state's Minister of Sports and Youth Welfare, Vishwas Sarang. The protesters claimed that during his speech on June 3, Gandhi used derogatory language towards disabled individuals and demanded an apology from the Congress leader.


Calls for Apology from Rahul Gandhi

Speaking to the media, para-athlete Nipendra Choure expressed their discontent, stating, "We have come to submit a memorandum against Rahul Gandhi, who used offensive terms for disabled people during his speech in Bhopal. This is completely wrong and irresponsible; such language should not be used."


Community's Response to Insensitive Remarks

Choure emphasized that while the Prime Minister encourages the differently-abled community and has replaced the term 'disabled' with 'divyang', it is disappointing that a leader in opposition would use such disrespectful language. He insisted that the entire community feels hurt by these comments and that Gandhi should apologize to them. "We are part of this nation, contributing to its progress, and disrespecting us is entirely inappropriate and irresponsible," he added.


Minister Sarang's Reaction

Meanwhile, Minister Sarang remarked that Gandhi's comments not only insulted disabled individuals but also disrespected Congress party members by comparing them to animals. He noted that the para-sports athletes who met him have brought honor to the state and country in the Paralympic Games. Sarang criticized Gandhi's remarks, stating that such statements discourage and demean the entire community. He highlighted that Gandhi, born with privilege, cannot understand the struggles faced by others.


Context of the Controversy

It is important to note that during a Congress worker conference in Bhopal on June 3, Rahul Gandhi discussed empowering party workers by referencing three types of horses, which sparked the controversy.


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