On his visit to flood-affected areas in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district, Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi’s car was attacked with a stone, cracking its rear left window. The incident occurred as he was on his way to the helipad after meeting victims in Dhanera and Kankrej. The attack triggered a political row, with Congress accusing BJP workers of being behind it. The BJP, while condemning the attack, dismissed Gandhi’s visit as a "political stunt."
In response, Congress called for a statewide protest. Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh condemned the attack, stating that political violence has no place in democracy. Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani also condemned the incident and ordered a probe, with the Ministry of Home Affairs sending an additional inquiry to look into the matter.
Gandhi reacted by downplaying the attack, saying, “A stone was thrown and black flags were shown, but these don’t affect me. The job is done.” Meanwhile, Congress workers protested in Patan, blocking traffic and burning tires. The party filed a complaint with police, seeking the registration of an FIR against BJP workers on charges of attempted murder and conspiracy.
During his visit, Gandhi expressed sympathy for flood victims, describing the destruction he witnessed, including the loss of land and lives. He assured those affected that his party would do everything to help them. The attack occurred while BJP supporters were reportedly seen waving black flags during Gandhi's speech in Dhanera.
Congress leaders, including Rajya Sabha Leader of Opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad, called the attack a deliberate attempt to create fear in the state ahead of the upcoming Gujarat assembly elections. Party spokesperson Abhishek Singhvi described the attack as “appalling and reprehensible,” claiming that cement bricks were used to target Gandhi’s car, injuring security personnel and damaging the vehicle. The BJP, on the other hand, claimed the state government had arranged a bulletproof vehicle for Gandhi, but he opted to travel in a private car.