‘Let the Departed Rest in Peace’: Arun Jaitley’s Son Refutes Rahul Gandhi’s Allegations
Rahul Gandhi alleged that late BJP leader Arun Jaitley had threatened him regarding the three farm laws brought in 2020 — a claim that contradicts the fact that the laws were introduced more than a year after Jaitley’s passing.
Rohan Jaitley, the son of late BJP leader Arun Jaitley, criticised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for alleging that the veteran leader had threatened him to stop protesting against the now-repealed farm laws. He urged Rahul to perform his constitutional duties with greater responsibility.
Posting on X, Rohan Jaitley pointed out that his father had passed away in 2019 — 13 months before the farm laws were introduced in Parliament. “More importantly, it was never in my father’s character to threaten someone for holding a different view. He was a strong believer in democracy and always emphasised the importance of consensus-building,” he wrote.
“In case such a situation had arisen, as often happens in politics, he would have encouraged open and respectful discussions to reach a mutually agreeable solution. That’s the kind of person he was, and that’s the legacy he has left behind.”
“I would request Rahul Gandhi to be considerate while speaking about those who are no longer with us. He had tried something similar with (former Goa CM) Manohar Parrikar ji, politicising his final days, which was equally disrespectful. Let the departed rest in peace,” he further stated.
In a separate conversation with news agency ANI, Rohan described Gandhi’s statement as “deeply objectionable” and said that as the Leader of the Opposition, he should speak with more caution and take his responsibilities seriously.
“When someone is no longer alive, it is best not to make public statements about them; let them rest in peace,” he said. “But he continues to say whatever he feels… I request him to fulfil the duties of his office with responsibility.”
What Did Rahul Gandhi Say?
Rohan’s statements came in response to Rahul Gandhi’s criticism of the Centre over his stance against the controversial farm laws, which were introduced nearly a year after Arun Jaitley’s death.
“I remember when I was opposing the farm laws, Arun Jaitley ji was sent to threaten me. He said, ‘If you keep resisting the government and continue to fight these farm laws, we will be forced to take action against you.’ I looked him in the eye and said, ‘I don’t think you realise who you are speaking to,’” Rahul said during the Annual Legal Conclave-2025.
Rahul’s comments drew sharp criticism from the BJP, with the party demanding a public apology for what they called a “new falsehood.” BJP leader Amit Malviya urged Rahul Gandhi to stick to facts instead of distorting timelines to “fit his narrative.”
