Rahul Gandhi Targets PM Modi Over ‘Culture Shock’
Rahul Gandhi has criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “culture shock” remark over young women using abusive language during recent student protests, arguing that the reaction reflected a gender double standard. His comments have revived debate over whether women are judged more harshly than men for using expletives during political protests.
Rahul Gandhi Targets Modi’s ‘Culture Shock’ Remark
Speaking at a student gathering in Pune, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha questioned why Modi had specifically highlighted female protesters while discussing abusive slogans raised during the Cockroach Janta Party demonstrations.
Gandhi said both male and female protesters had used foul language, but argued that society appeared more disturbed when women did so.
He linked the controversy to a wider argument about restrictions and expectations imposed on women in Indian society.
Modi Had Said He Would Forgive Protesters
The controversy originated after videos from the CJP protests at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar showed some young protesters using expletives against Modi.
In an Instagram video released on July 31, Modi said abusive language directed at him and his late mother was unacceptable but described the protesters as “misguided children” who should be guided rather than punished.
While saying he wanted to forgive them, Modi remarked that seeing “our daughters” use such language had come as a “cultural shock”.
CJP Protests Sparked Wider Political Debate
The youth-led protests had focused on examination paper leaks, alleged irregularities and demands for education reforms. Demonstrations intensified in July, with clashes reported between protesters and police during attempts to march towards Parliament.
Gandhi’s latest intervention has shifted attention back to the gender dimension of the controversy, with political debate now focusing on whether similar behaviour by male and female protesters receives different social reactions.
