Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has hit back at the BJP over its protest against her bag that had "Palestine" written on it, calling the criticism an example of "typical patriarchy".

"Who is going to decide what clothes I wear now? Who is going to decide that? That's typical patriarchy ? that you decide what women wear also. I don't subscribe to that. I will wear what I want," Ms. Vadra told reporters when questioned about the controversy.

The Bag and the Row

The Congress leader carried a bag to Parliament on Monday that featured the word "Palestine" alongside an image of a watermelon, widely regarded as a global symbol of solidarity with Palestine. The move sparked a heated row in Parliament, with the BJP criticizing her for making a political statement through her choice of accessories.

Responding to the controversy, Ms. Vadra held up the bag and reiterated her stance. "I have said many times what my beliefs are regarding this. If you look at my Twitter handle, all my comments are over there," she said.

Priyanka Gandhi's Position on Palestine

Ms. Gandhi Vadra has been vocal about her views on the Israel-Palestine conflict, especially in the wake of Israel's military offensive following the Hamas attacks in October last year. The Congress leader has consistently criticized the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and expressed her solidarity with Palestinian civilians.

The BJP's sharp reaction to her choice of bag has ignited fresh political clashes, with opposition leaders accusing the ruling party of focusing on trivial issues while ignoring critical matters of national importance.

The controversy surrounding the "Palestine bag" comes amid growing domestic and international discourse over the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.