“Can I Kiss Priyanka Gandhi?” BJP Minister’s Remark on Siblings’ Affection Sparks Outrage

BHOPAL: A massive controversy has erupted in Madhya Pradesh after state cabinet minister Vijay Shah made derogatory remarks about the public display of affection between Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and his sister, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. Shah’s comment, made in support of a fellow minister’s criticism, has drawn sharp condemnation from the Congress party, which has launched statewide protests.

Speaking at an event in Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh, Shah questioned the public bond shared by the Gandhi siblings. “This is not our culture. Our traditions and customs do not teach this. Do what you have learned in your own house, but don’t display it in public,” Shah stated. He then added, “She is my real sister too. Should I kiss her in public? Indian culture and tradition do not teach us that.”

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The minister was defending recent comments by his cabinet colleague Kailash Vijayvargiya, who had also criticized Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi for their public expressions of affection.

This is not the first time Vijay Shah has been embroiled in controversy over his statements. In May, he made offensive remarks targeting Colonel Sophia Qureshi, following ‘Operation Sindoor’, for which he later had to apologize.

The latest comments have infuriated the Congress party. Protests have broken out across the state, with party workers burning effigies of Vijayvargiya. “It is unfortunate that no action is taken against BJP ministers who use offensive and derogatory language,” said Congress spokesperson K.K. Mishra. State Congress President Jitu Patwari has demanded the immediate resignation of both ministers involved in the controversy.