A Shameless Defense: Sambit Patra Backs Anurag Thakur’s Unparliamentary Caste Comments

BJP Spokesperson Calls Rahul Gandhi’s Behavior Childish, Demands Transparency on SC-ST and OBC Representation in Rajiv Gandhi Foundation

New Delhi: In a display of irony and hypocrisy, BJP National Spokesperson Sambit Patra defended Anurag Thakur’s controversial caste remarks in Parliament, drawing on his own dubious reputation and history of misleading statements. While attempting to criticize Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, Patra’s defense of such “unparliamentary” and “senseless” comments reveals deeper issues within the BJP’s approach to parliamentary decorum and respect for democratic institutions.

Dr. Patra, notorious for his sycophantic remarks and false claims, is hardly in a position to lecture others about parliamentary behavior. In a previous instance, Patra equated Prime Minister Narendra Modi to God Jagannath, a statement that sparked widespread outrage and trolling on social media. Patra was forced to apologize and announce a three-day fast as penance, highlighting his tendency for hyperbolic and reckless statements​.

Adding to his controversial record, Patra falsely claimed to have secured the 19th rank in the UPSC exam in 2000 during a television debate. This claim was quickly debunked, as no person named Sambit Patra appeared in the list of qualifiers for that year. The episode further damaged his credibility and showcased his willingness to fabricate achievements for political gain​.

Given this backdrop, Patra’s defense of Anurag Thakur’s caste inquiry appears even more hypocritical. Asking about caste in Parliament, especially in the manner Thakur did, is seen as both offensive and divisive. It contradicts the BJP’s supposed commitment to Hindutva principles, which advocate for unity and equality among Hindus, irrespective of caste. Yet, Patra’s backing of such comments underscores a troubling trend within the party of using caste as a political tool.

Patra’s attempt to turn the tables on Rahul Gandhi by questioning his caste reflects a deeper strategy of deflection and whataboutism, rather than addressing the core issue of caste discrimination and representation in Indian politics. By demanding Rahul Gandhi reveal the number of SC-ST and OBC members in the Rajiv Gandhi Foundation, Patra diverts attention from the BJP’s own failures to address caste inequities within its ranks and policies.

Moreover, Patra’s history of making exaggerated and false claims raises questions about his integrity and the sincerity of his attacks on opposition figures. As a spokesperson, his repeated gaffes and controversies undermine the credibility of his statements and reflect poorly on the BJP’s communication strategy.

In conclusion, Sambit Patra’s defense of Anurag Thakur’s unparliamentary remarks not only reveals the BJP’s divisive strategies but also underscores Patra’s own lack of credibility due to his controversial past. His approach raises serious concerns about the respect for democratic norms and the genuine commitment to equality within the BJP.

You can watch Patra’s Pree Confernce here :