Priyanka Gandhi Hits Back at BJP Over ‘Palestine Bag’ Row, Calls Criticism ‘Patriarchal’

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 17th Dec. Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has dismissed the BJP’s criticism of her over a bag with “Palestine” written on it, calling it “typical patriarchy.” Responding to the row sparked in Parliament, she said, “Who is going to decide what clothes I wear now? That’s typical patriarchy… I will wear what I want.”

Displaying the bag in question, she reiterated her stance on the Palestine issue, which she said is well-documented on her social media platforms. The bag, featuring the word “Palestine” and a watermelon symbol—widely associated with solidarity for Palestine—drew applause from Congress supporters but sharp criticism from BJP leaders.

BJP MP Gulam Ali Khatana called it a publicity stunt, accusing Gandhi of seeking attention after facing electoral setbacks. North-East Delhi MP Manoj Tiwari alleged the Congress’s act was aimed at appeasement, saying, “Congress does appeasement to gain votes without genuinely supporting the Muslim community.”

Union Minister SP Singh Baghel criticized the use of the “Palestine” bag, suggesting it was a calculated move to polarize Muslim votes. He argued that promoting locally made “Swadeshi” bags would have better served the nation’s artisans and industries.

Gandhi Vadra dismissed the remarks as irrelevant, urging the government to focus on protecting minorities in Bangladesh, particularly in light of political changes there, rather than “engaging in useless controversies.”

The government has maintained its consistent stance on the Palestine issue, advocating for a two-state solution with Israel and Palestine coexisting in peace.

The controversy has reignited debates over symbolism in politics and its impact on public discourse.