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Congress Slams BJP Candidate Over Controversial Remarks on Gandhi and Godse

Kalyani Jha
26 Mar, 2024

The Congress party has launched a scathing attack on Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate Abhijit Gangopadhyay following his controversial comments regarding Mahatma Gandhi and Nathuram Godse. Gangopadhyay, a former Calcutta High Court judge who recently joined the BJP, is contesting in West Bengal's Tamluk constituency for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls in 2024. His reported remarks that he "cannot choose between Gandhi and Godse" have sparked outrage and demands for his candidature withdrawal.

Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh minced no words in condemning Gangopadhyay's statement, calling it "worse than pathetic" and demanding immediate action from the BJP. Ramesh expressed disbelief that a former judge of the esteemed Calcutta High Court would make such a statement, especially after receiving the BJP's endorsement, including from the Prime Minister. He urged the BJP to withdraw Gangopadhyay's candidature, emphasizing the need to protect Mahatma Gandhi's legacy from such remarks.

The controversy stems from Gangopadhyay's remarks to a TV channel where he mentioned his difficulty in choosing between Gandhi and Godse, citing the need to understand Godse's perspective as part of his legal profession. While Gangopadhyay condemned Gandhi's assassination, he defended his stance by emphasizing the importance of examining all facets of historical events, including Godse's motivations.

West Bengal Minister Firhad Hakim also weighed in on the matter, expressing concerns about judges entering politics and raising questions about their previous judicial decisions. Hakim stressed the importance of impartiality and unbiased judgments from the judiciary, highlighting the unique situation of a sitting High Court judge resigning to join a political party.

Gangopadhyay's candidacy has stirred controversy not only due to his remarks but also because of his previous brushes with controversy, including being pulled up by the Supreme Court for giving interviews on sensitive cases. The upcoming Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal have added intensity to the situation, with political parties closely scrutinizing candidates' backgrounds and statements.

As West Bengal prepares for the crucial elections, Gangopadhyay's comments and the ensuing backlash underscore the complexities and sensitivities surrounding historical figures like Mahatma Gandhi and issues related to judicial impartiality and political neutrality.