Narendra Modi's BJP hands opposition a useful sword

The removal of Rahul Gandhi from Parliament has already had the effect of rallying the opposition

- Ravi Velloor

Has Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ruling party just gifted their all-conquering supremo a broad potential challenge in the next election, if not a single viable challenger? The world must ask the question after opposition figure Rahul Gandhi of the Indian National Congress was sentenced on March 23 to two years in jail the maximum sentence - for criminal defamation. Based on the judgment, which triggers disqualification from standing for public office for six years after the jail term is completed, the Parliament secretariat told Gandhi, who is a four-term MP, that he had lost his seat. He also has to vacate the official bungalow he has occupied for years by April 22.

India's Parliament has been stalled lately over the opposition's demand for a joint parliamentary committee probe into the allegations levelled by short-seller Hindenburg against the Adani Group, which is based in Mr Modi's home state of Gujarat and has backed him since his early days as chief minister of the province.

The developments that culminated in Gandhi's disqualification from Parliament have prompted a rare case of opposition unity; even parties that had avoided aligning with Congress too closely are now joining in protests led by the party. This week, more opposition parties have agreed to coordinate their moves inside and outside of Parliament.

Unless the 52-year-old Gandhi secures a stay on the conviction within 30 days, his political career will need to be pursued outside the legislative chambers. Without parliamentary privilege, his ability to speak out will be further curtailed.

Meanwhile, many Indians are taken aback, and some are vexed at seeing Gandhi being removed from Parliament even as they appreciate him more for his lineage the great grandson, grandson and son of prime ministers than intellect or articulation.