Has Rahul Gandhi Been Caught in His Own Trap? Political Signals Ahead of the 'Parliamentary Battle' Beginning March 9

— Vijay Dixit

(Senior Editor, Amrita Bazar Patrika / Jugantar Group, Kolkata)

New Delhi/Kolkata: Amidst the vibrant colors of Holi, the color of Delhi's politics seems to be fading into something ugly. The second phase of the Budget Session is set to begin on March 9, but the political lines being drawn ahead of it are not auspicious signs for the Congress, and specifically for Rahul Gandhi. The strategy of mud-slinging at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which Rahul had made his primary weapon, now appears to be 'boomeranging' and staining his own reputation.

Three issues are currently heating up the parliamentary corridors the most: Kiren Rijiju’s Ethics Committee gambit, the mysteries surrounding General Naravane’s book, and that specific incident inside the Speaker’s Chamber which shredded parliamentary decorum.

1. Not Just Privilege, Now the Noose of the 'Ethics Committee'

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has clearly indicated that Rahul Gandhi's case will not be limited to a Privilege Motion alone. The government believes that Rahul Gandhi's behavior has become akin to that of a 'habitual offender.' Rijiju has stated that Rahul's case could be referred to the Parliament's Ethics Committee.

The Implication: While the Privileges Committee looks into violations of rules, the Ethics Committee examines the 'moral conduct' and 'seriousness' of a Member of Parliament. If the matter goes there, the sword will hang over Rahul Gandhi’s parliamentary membership not just on technical grounds, but on moral grounds as well.

2. General Naravane’s Book and the Deflation of Rahul’s Allegations

In the previous session, Rahul Gandhi launched sharp attacks on the government regarding the China border dispute and the Agnipath scheme. However, former Army Chief General M.M. Naravane’s upcoming book has deflated these opposition allegations. According to sources, the picture of internal army decisions and coordination with the government presented in the memoirs is the exact opposite of the narrative spread by Rahul Gandhi.

Political experts believe that Rahul’s 'non-serious conduct' regarding sensitive army issues and his leveling of allegations without facts will now be used as evidence against him.

3. Indecency in the Speaker's Chamber: Priyanka’s Presence and the Question of Decorum

An incident inside Parliament has made the situation even more explosive—an incident that has been kept out of mainstream discussion until now. According to reliable sources, Rahul Gandhi's behavior during a meeting in Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla's chamber was highly objectionable.

Surprisingly, when Rahul Gandhi was allegedly behaving rudely and engaging in an altercation with the Speaker, his sister and Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra was also present. Treating the Speaker, who is the Custodian of the House, in such a manner is not only an insult to parliamentary traditions but also reflects Rahul Gandhi's 'arrogant mindset.' The ruling party is preparing to raise this issue vociferously.

4. Mamata’s 'Distancing' and the Illusion of Opposition Unity

Amidst all these troubles, Rahul Gandhi is not getting the support from the opposition that he had expected. Mamata Banerjee’s TMC has made it clear that they will not become Rahul Gandhi’s 'camp followers.'

The Proof: TMC MPs flatly refused to sign the motion brought against Speaker Om Birla. This step indicates that Mamata Banerjee does not wish to invite a confrontation with a constitutional post like the Speaker due to Rahul’s 'immature' leadership.The Mahabharata from March 9 When the Parliament session resumes next month, Rahul Gandhi will appear surrounded from all sides. On one side is the Ethics Committee probe, on the other are the facts from General Naravane’s book, and on the third is the serious allegation of misbehavior with the Speaker. It appears that in his attempt to sling mud at the Prime Minister, Rahul Gandhi has put his own membership and credibility at stake.