BJP denies Modi called opposition leaders 'dimagi Naxals'

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju said Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not call opposition leaders "dimagi Naxals" amid an escalating political row ^[1].

The dispute highlights deepening tensions between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Congress over national security rhetoric and loyalty to the state.

The clarification follows criticism from Congress leaders, including P. Chidambaram, who reacted to allegations that the Prime Minister had used the term to describe political opponents [1, 2]. The phrase "dimagi Naxal" translates to "intellectual Naxalite," a term often used to describe those perceived as promoting subversive ideologies.

Rijiju said the term is not directed at political rivals but has a specific definition ^[1]. "The words 'dimagi Naxals' refer only to those who support Maoists, reject the Constitution, stand with separatists and support Article 370, and those who call for cutting off the Chicken's Neck," Rijiju said ^[1].

The "Chicken's Neck," known formally as the Siliguri Corridor, is the narrow strip of land connecting mainland India to its northeastern states. By linking the term to those advocating for the severance of this corridor, the government is framing the issue as one of territorial integrity rather than partisan politics [1, 2].

Simultaneously, the BJP has shifted the focus toward the opposition leadership. The party has demanded a formal apology from Congress leader Sonia Gandhi in connection with the broader controversy ^[2]. This demand comes as the political atmosphere in Punjab and other regions remains volatile over issues of national identity and the "Vande Mataram" anthem ^[2].

The Congress party has maintained its criticism of the Prime Minister's alleged language, while the BJP continues to argue that the opposition is shielding elements that threaten the constitutional order [1, 2].