Sam Pitroda, a leader of the Congress party, has sparked a significant controversy by stating that Indians in the East resemble the Chinese, while those in the South look like Africans. This comment has quickly drawn criticism from the BJP.
During an interview with The Statesman, Pitroda discussed India’s role as a democratic model and mentioned that the country’s people have managed to coexist peacefully for 75 years, despite occasional conflicts.
Pitroda stated, “We have been able to unite a country as diverse as India, where individuals in the East resemble the Chinese, those in the West resemble Arabs, those in the North may look White, and those in the South resemble Africans. However, these differences do not matter. We are all brothers and sisters.”
He further emphasized, “We all value different languages, religions, customs, and cuisines. This is the India that I believe in, where everyone has a place and is willing to make compromises.”
The BJP has criticized Sam Pitroda for his ‘racist’ remarks:
In response to Pitroda’s controversial remarks, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed his views on the matter. He stated that he hails from the Northeast and proudly identifies as an Indian. Sarma emphasized the diversity of our country, highlighting that although we may have different appearances, we are all united as one. He urged Pitroda to gain a better understanding of our nation.
Kangana Ranaut, an actor-turned-politician, strongly criticized the Congress and condemned Pitroda’s comments as both racist and divisive. She took a dig at Pitroda by referring to him as Congress MP Rahul Gandhi’s mentor. Ranaut accused the Congress of following a divide and rule ideology, expressing her disgust at labeling fellow Indians as Chinese or African. She concluded her statement by expressing her disappointment with the Congress.
BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad also criticized Pitroda, stating that his comparison of a diverse India further demonstrates his lack of understanding of the country and its culture. Prasad asserted that Pitroda’s failure to comprehend India is evident, especially considering his role as Rahul Gandhi’s advisor. Prasad attributed Rahul Gandhi’s nonsensical statements to Pitroda’s influence, suggesting that their frustration stems from their defeat and their lack of understanding of India and its heritage.
BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawala referred to Sam Pitroda as a “serial offender” and demanded his expulsion from the Congress. Poonawala accused Pitroda of promoting an ideology that pits Indians against each other, labeling it as racism and hate. He drew a parallel between Pitroda’s words and the ideology of Rahul Gandhi, emphasizing the negative impact of such divisive rhetoric.