Yogi Adityanath hits out at Rahul Gandhi over heritage criticism

Yogi Adityanath, the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, has launched a sharp criticism of Congress politician Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of exploiting constitutional provisions to disparage India's cultural heritage.

"You have taken an oath on the Constitution and, after taking that oath, you consider it your birthright to denounce India's traditions and heritage," Adityanath said in response to Gandhi's recent statements regarding the Manusmriti, the ancient Hindu legal text that has drawn controversy for its treatment of social hierarchies.

The exchange reflects ongoing tensions between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party and the opposition Congress party over how India's historical and cultural legacy should be interpreted and discussed. Gandhi's criticism of the Manusmriti has been part of broader Congress arguments about social equality and the rejection of caste-based discrimination in Indian society.

Adityanath's statement suggests the government views such critiques as undermining India's broader cultural identity, while opposition voices argue that critical examination of historical texts is essential to advancing social progress and constitutional values.