Yogi Adityanath criticizes Priyanka Gandhi's 'Palestine' Bag: 'UP sent 5,600 youth to Israel'

On Monday, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra carried a bag with ‘Palestine’ emblazoned on it, signifying her support for the Palestinians. Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday criticized Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra for this, highlighting a contrast in their respective actions.

“A Congress leader was roaming around in the Parliament carrying a bag with ‘Palestine’ written on it, while we are sending the youth of Uttar Pradesh to Israel. More than 5,600 youth of UP have gone to Israel for construction work so far,” ANI quoted the chief minister as saying in the state assembly.

Youth Employment in Israel

“Every youth is getting free accommodation and food, a salary of ₹1.5 lakh per month, and complete security is also guaranteed,” Adityanath added.

‘Palestine’ Bag Controversy

On Monday, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra carried a bag with ‘Palestine’ emblazoned on it, symbolizing her support for the Palestinians. Reacting to the bag, BJP MP Anurag Thakur remarked, "She did not speak a word on atrocities on Hindus in Bangladesh but wants to make a fashion statement with the Palestine bag."

Vadra’s Response

Hitting back at BJP, Vadra said, "Who is going to decide what clothes I am going to wear? This is typical patriarchy, deciding what a woman should wear."

She further commented on the situation in Bangladesh, stating, "The atrocities happening in Bangladesh, against minorities and Hindus... something should be done regarding this. Talks should be held with the Bangladesh government regarding this... and they should not say such useless things."

India's Stand on Israel-Palestine Conflict

According to a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs, India has strongly condemned the terror attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023, and the loss of civilian lives in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.

India's policy towards Palestine has been long-standing and consistent. India has supported a negotiated two-state solution, towards the establishment of a sovereign, independent, and viable State of Palestine within secure and recognized borders, living side by side in peace with Israel, according to the MEA.