New Delhi (India) August 2: Congress leader Pawan Khera defended the Leader of opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi after an FIR was filed against him and several opposition MPs over protest on misuse of Ram Temple donations, asking the BJP-led government to not overlook “real issues”.

This is after Varanasi Police registered an FIR against Rahul Gandhi, Pappu Yadav and Awadhesh Prasad over a skit staged in the Parliament complex following a complaint.

Parliament Skit Fuels Fresh Controversy

The issue snowballed after opposition members organized a demonstration in the Parliament, where Pappu Yadav MP from Purnia and some others staged a symbolic performance. Some opposition MPs presented Pappu Yadav as a Hindu priest and presented the donation box for the “Ram Temple.” They pointed out that this was due to misuse of the temple donations.

This had triggered the BJP leadership, with Bansuri Swaraj complaining in Delhi to ensure firm action on opposition parties for hurting religious sentiments of Hindus and an FIR was registered against Pappu Yadav in Delhi as well. 

Police Register Case Under BNS

The first FIR was filed at Kotwali police station in Varanasi for allegedly hurting religious sentiments during the protest and a group of Varanasi seers had submitted a complaint.

According to Police the case has been registered under various Sections of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Sections related to inciting disaffection among groups, deliberately performing any act with the intent to outrage religious feelings and acts committed with common intention have been registered against three people.

Rahul's Friendship Day Post For Students

Meanwhile, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi today posted on Instagram a “Gen Z style” wish for the people on Friendship Day. 

Rahul wrote, "Still a student, still learning something new every day. Today's lesson: it's Friendship Day and this �� is a heart. Happy Friendship Day, everyone. Lots of love!" 

The Congress MP in recent times has been making concerted efforts to reconnect with younger demographics across India through targeted digital campaigns and outreach programs. He even touches on issues important to young India including paper leaks and unemployment, and has also made direct reference to the terms of’ Gen Z’ in many of his public speeches as well as on social media posts.