Amid handshake row, former Pakistani cricketer Afridi calls Rahul Gandhi ‘positive’, likens BJP to Israel | VIDEO

New Delhi: BJP on Tuesday targeted Congress leader Rahul Gandhi after former Pakistani cricketer Shahid Afridi praised him on Pakistani TV. The party shared the clip on its official handle, saying: “With every anti-India element, Congress's hand! Why is Shahid Afridi, who always spews venom against India, suddenly showering praises on Rahul Gandhi?”

Afridi, speaking on Samma TV during a discussion on the recent India-Pakistan Asia Cup clash, lauded Gandhi for having a “positive mindset” and a belief in dialogue, while criticising the BJP’s policies. He also compared India’s approach towards Pakistan with Israel’s actions in Gaza.

“This government (in India) always plays the religion and Muslim-Hindu card to stay in power. This is a very bad mindset. Rahul Gandhi has a very positive mindset. He believes in dialogue. Is one Israel not enough that you are trying to become another?" Afridi said.

Handshake decision sparks debate

The controversy comes after the Indian cricket team refused to shake hands with Pakistan following their Asia Cup group stage clash in Dubai. The decision was widely seen as an expression of solidarity with victims of the Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 people, mostly Hindus, just months ago.

BJP leaders strike back

The remarks drew sharp reactions from BJP leaders. Party national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawala said Afridi’s comments revealed a “long-standing alignment” between Congress and Pakistan’s narrative.

“After Hafiz Saeed, now Shahid Afridi praises Rahul Gandhi… Not surprised! Everyone who hates India finds an ally in Rahul Gandhi & Congress," Poonawala wrote on X, adding that Congress echoed Pakistan’s position on issues ranging from Article 370 to the Mumbai terror attacks.

BJP IT cell chief Amit Malviya also weighed in, calling Afridi a long-time critic of India. Posting on social media, he said: “Why is it that every India-hater finds a friend in Rahul Gandhi? When enemies of Bharat start cheering for you, the people of India know exactly where your loyalties lie.”

Malviya further remarked: “The bigot Shahid Afridi comparing India to Israel and Pakistan to Gaza is the best thing one has heard in a while. The fear is real.”

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju added: “Rahul Gandhi has been the darling of Pakistan!" He further commented in Hindi: “Shahid Afridi and the people of Pakistan can make Rahul Gandhi their leader.”

Context: India’s Asia Cup win

India defeated Pakistan by seven wickets in the Asia Cup clash.