Don’t drag Army in politics -  Rahul Gandhi’s remarks divisive, irresponsible: Raman Suri

JAMMU: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) executive member Raman Suri has strongly criticised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for his recent comments alleging caste dominance within national institutions, including the Indian Army. Suri termed the remarks irresponsible, divisive, and detrimental to national unity. He said the Indian Army has always upheld merit, equality and national integrity, and any attempt to portray it through the prism of caste was misleading and harmful.

“The Indian Army has no place for caste, creed or region. Questioning its character for political mileage is unacceptable and demoralising to those who safeguard our borders,” he said. He questioned the basis of Rahul Gandhi’s claim regarding caste representation in the armed forces and said such statements damage public trust and fuel social discord. Raman Suri said that while Rahul Gandhi speaks repeatedly about representation, he should first disclose caste representation within the Congress party and its organisational structure, especially given Congress’ past opposition to reservations during Rajiv Gandhi’s tenure.

He recalled that during Congress governments, including Rajiv Gandhi’s tenure, there was strong opposition to OBC reservation. He added that while the BJP stands for inclusive growth and social justice, the Congress continues to play politics over people’s emotions and identities. “If Rahul Gandhi is truly committed to social justice, why does he not start by ensuring fair representation in his own party?” Suri asked. He further stated that India needs development, education, empowerment and equal opportunity, not constant attempts to divide society along caste lines.

Suri also criticised the J&K Congress committee for “toeing the same divisive line and encouraging politics that lowers public discourse and threatens social harmony.” He urged political parties to prioritise unity, progress and constructive politics. “Those attempting to create caste fault-lines for electoral gains will be rejected by the people. India stands for unity, and no one will be allowed to weaken that spirit,” Suri asserted. Taking a dig at local leadership, Raman Suri said the J&K Congress committee is toeing the same divisive line, following leaders who are lowering political discourse and attempting to fragment India socially and ideologically. He urged political parties in Jammu & Kashmir to reject such narrow politics and work for peace, development and national unity.