In Brief
- Pralhad Joshi defended the early release of the Bilkis Bano convicts.
- Rahul Gandhi called Joshi a 'Defender of Rapists' and questioned his appointment as the new Education Minister.
- The convicts were sentenced for crimes committed during the 2002 Gujarat riots.
- Joshi's remarks sparked political backlash and public debate.
Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi defended the early release of 11 men who were serving life sentences for raping Bilkis Bano and murdering members of her family during the 2002 Gujarat riots. This defence prompted Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to condemn Joshi's stance sharply, labelling him the "Defender of Rapists" while holding his position as Education Minister.
The Bilkis Bano case is one of the most sensitive and high-profile instances of communal violence in recent Indian history. The convicts involved were originally sentenced to life imprisonment for heinous crimes committed during the riots. Joshi's comments in support of their early release have ignited strong reactions across political and social spheres.
Rahul Gandhi's criticism underscores ongoing debates about justice and accountability concerning the Gujarat riots. Political parties continue to react to these developments amid broader discussions on governance and victim rights.
