Trump incident sparks safety debate for PM Modi amid growing ‘political hostility’

NEW DELHI: Analysts are now evaluating the ramifications of the recent assassination attempt on former US President Donald Trump.
There is a growing perception that such incidents reflect a trend where individuals resort to violence to amplify their voices, supported by certain segments of the political class driven by personal agendas.
An article penned by a former IPS officer in an English daily further intensified the ongoing debate on Thursday.
Adding to this discourse, Sudhanshu Trivedi, BJP spokesperson and Rajya Sabha MP, voiced apprehensions about the rising prevalence of violent rhetoric in political discussions.
He pointed to incidents such as the assassination of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and the recent attack on US Presidential candidate Donald Trump as troubling instances of global political violence.
Trivedi pointed out, “Statements that incite violence and assassination are often inspired by political parties using terms like ‘violence’ and ‘murder’ for short-term gains. It’s unfortunate and alarming that such provocative language is being directed towards PM Narendra Modi.”
He specifically aimed at Rahul Gandhi, criticising the Congress leader for repeatedly using derogatory language against the Prime Minister.
In a message for Rahul Gandhi, Trivedi said, “This politicking with national security has persisted for a long time. If you have assumed the role of Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, demonstrate some maturity.”
Meanwhile, many analysts believe that India is not exempt from such political practices, which have become increasingly prevalent over the past decade.
Prime Minister Modi has been consistently targeted over various trivial issues. Political observers argue that PM Modi’s popularity and his success in challenging the long-standing dominance of certain political factions (Congress) have provoked a “negative campaign” by the opposition.
Politicians of this persuasion have often defended their accusations against the PM under the guise of freedom of speech.
According to analysts, what is particularly surprising is that the Congress, despite having lost two of its Prime Ministers, has shown no hesitation in endorsing this practice against PM Modi.
Agencies