New Delhi: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi launched a scatching attack against Prime Minister Narendra Modia and Bharatiya Janata Party-led Central Government over the Pegasus Snooping report which recently claimed that several Indian journalists, ministers and leaders were possible candidates for surveillance using Israel-made spyware 'Pegasus'.
Defending the daily uproar and protests being held in parliament since day-1 of Monsoon Session, Rahul Gandhi in a press conference on Wednesday said, "It is being said about us that we're disturbing Parliament proceedings. We are not disturbing the House. We just want to fulfil our duties. This weapon (Pegasus) has been used against India. It should be used against terrorists & anti-nationals."
Congress leader questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah why this weapon (Pegasus spyware) should be used against India's democratic institutions.
"We want to ask just one question. Has the Govt of India bought Pegasus? Yes or No. Did the Govt use Pegasus weapon against its own people? We have been told clearly by the Govt that no discussion will take place on Pegasus in the House. I want to know from the youth of the country - Narendra Modi Ji has sent a weapon in your phone. This weapon has been used against me, Supreme Court, many leaders, people in the press & activists. So why it should not be discussed in the House?" Rahul Gandhi said.
"For us, Pegasus is a matter related to nationalism & treason. This weapon has been used against democracy. For me, it's not a matter of privacy. I see it as an anti-national act. Narendra Modi & Amit Shah Ji have attacked soul of India's democracy," the congress leader added.
Earlier today, Union Minister Anurag Thakur accused the MPs of Opposition parties of attempting not to let Parliament function. The Minister alleged that Congress and TMC MPs threw papers on Speaker, ministers and media, and showed placards.
"Why is Opposition running away from discussions? Why is the Opposition involved in such objectionable acts? Doesn't Opposition have enough issues for discussions? Is Opposition trying to defame India across the world? We strongly condemn such acts," Anurag Thakur said on Opposition MPs' protest in Parliament.