Chandigarh, July 30: Haryana’s Energy, Transport and Labour Minister Anil Vij strongly reacted to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s remarks that the absence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah from Parliament during the discussion on the student issue reflected a “sense of guilt.” Vij said that Rahul Gandhi speaks selectively, whereas the law is equal for everyone. He asserted that if any excesses were committed against students, strict action must be taken, but if police personnel were also assaulted during the protests, those responsible must face the law as well.
Speaking to mediapersons today, Vij said that nearly 120 police personnel were injured during the agitation. He questioned why Rahul Gandhi had remained silent on the injuries sustained by the police. “If action is demanded against those who assaulted students, then equal action should also be taken against those who attacked police personnel. The law does not discriminate—it applies equally to everyone,” he said.
Vij further stated that reports indicate that nearly 2,800 persons with criminal backgrounds or criminal records were present at the protest site. He questioned who had mobilised them and for what purpose. “Who called these people? Why were they brought there? Every aspect of the incident must be investigated. Investigations cannot be conducted merely on the basis of what Rahul Gandhi says. He repeatedly names Union Home Minister Amit Shah, but what evidence does he have to support such allegations? On what basis is he making these accusations?” Vij asked.
The Minister clarified that law-and-order decisions at the spot are taken by the Duty Magistrate and the officers present on the spot in accordance with the prevailing circumstances. “Would anyone expect officials to seek the Home Minister’s permission every time a violent situation develops? Such statements are childish. Public discourse should be based on facts and evidence,” he remarked.
Taking a political swipe at Rahul Gandhi, Vij said that the family whose members once occupied the Prime Minister’s residence had now been reduced to staging protests outside its gates. He added that the Congress, having lost public confidence, now appeared more interested in creating unrest than offering constructive politics.
“Saffron Is the Colour of Purity”: Anil Vij
Reacting to Hockey India’s decision to change the colour of the Indian national hockey team’s jersey from blue to saffron, Vij welcomed the move and described saffron as a symbol of purity, energy and inspiration. He said that saffron is the first colour seen in the sky at sunrise and represents enthusiasm, strength and positivity. Congratulating Hockey India on the decision, he expressed confidence that the Indian hockey team, wearing the new saffron jersey, would perform exceptionally well and achieve greater success on the international stage.
