The recent allegation by BJP Rajya Sabha MP from Nagaland, Phangnon Konyak, against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has reignited debates about the misuse of identity politics and the gender card. While every individual deserves respect and dignity, invoking identity markers like gender or tribal status to amplify a personal grievance can undermine the credibility of genuine struggles for equality and justice.
Konyak’s claims of discomfort due to Gandhi’s behavior, coupled with references to her identity as a woman and a Scheduled Tribe member, reflect a troubling trend where identity is leveraged to frame incidents in ways that evoke public sympathy or political advantage. Such tactics risk turning serious societal concerns into tools for scoring political points, diluting the focus on actual systemic issues faced by women and marginalized communities.
When identity and gender are wielded as rhetorical tools, it often shifts public discourse away from substantive issues. The original protest against alleged Congress atrocities became overshadowed by a personal grievance. This not only trivializes the protest’s cause but also diverts attention from broader societal challenges that require genuine engagement and solutions. Or, could it be that the diversion of attention was part of the plan?
The overuse of identity politics creates skepticism, even toward legitimate grievances. When identity is invoked in disputes that lack clear evidence, as alleged by Congress MP Hibi Eden in his denial of the accusations against Gandhi, it raises doubts about the sincerity of the claims. This is detrimental to individuals who genuinely face discrimination or harassment, as it builds a culture of mistrust and cynicism.
Parliament, as a democratic institution, should debate on policy and governance rather than becoming a battleground for personal accusations amplified by identity. The reliance on identity-based narratives during disagreements risks reducing political discourse to mere theatrics, undermining the institution’s credibility and purpose.
Identity and gender should be tools for empowerment, not exploitation. Leaders must exercise restraint and ensure that their actions and words promote unity and understanding rather than divisiveness. Genuine issues of harassment or discrimination must be addressed through appropriate channels, with evidence and due process, rather than being sensationalized for political mileage.
Ultimately, the misuse of identity politics and the gender card damages not only individual reputations but also the larger causes they seek to champion. Society must prioritize truth, evidence, and genuine dialogue to address grievances effectively. Naga society is observing the Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament.