Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh) [India], December 21 (HBTV): Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath criticized Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra for carrying a bag with 'Palestine' written on it, contrasting this with the state government's efforts to send youth to Israel for employment opportunities.

Speaking in the assembly, CM Yogi Adityanath remarked, '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 from UP have gone to Israel for construction work so far. Every youth is getting free accommodation and food, a salary of INR 1.5 lakh per month, and complete security is also guaranteed.'

The controversy began on Monday when Priyanka Gandhi was seen carrying a bag during a Parliament session with 'Palestine' inscribed on it. The bag also displayed various emblems, including a watermelon, often associated with Palestinian solidarity.

In response to BJP's criticism, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra dismissed the remarks, calling them 'useless things'. She also urged the BJP-led central government to address issues such as the reported atrocities against minorities and Hindus in Bangladesh.

'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,' Priyanka Gandhi said to reporters.

The controversy emerges against the backdrop of the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict, which intensified in October 2023 following Hamas attacks on Israel. India condemned the terror attacks and expressed its support for a negotiated two-state solution, advocating for a sovereign and independent Palestine coexisting peacefully with Israel.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, India has maintained a consistent policy supporting the resolution of the Israel-Palestine conflict through peaceful negotiations. (ANI)