Congress Member of Parliament Rahul Gandhi delivered a powerful address at the National Convention of Rachnatmak Congress on Thursday, where he launched a comprehensive critique of the central government's policies and ideological stance. During his speech, Gandhi touched upon several critical issues, ranging from the fundamental right to freedom of expression to the ongoing border tensions with China and the economic challenges facing the nation. He emphasized that the strength of India lies in the ability of every citizen to express themselves without fear, regardless of their religious or ideological background.
Commitment to Freedom of Expression
In a notable statement that caught the attention of many, Rahul Gandhi spoke about the National Volunteer Organization, the RSS. He stated that while he may have deep ideological differences with the organization, he would stand up to protect their right to expression if it were ever threatened. Gandhi remarked that the day there is talk of ending the expression of the RSS in the country, he would be the one to defend them because expression belongs to them as well. He articulated a vision for India where everyone, whether Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, or Jain, can speak their mind openly. According to Gandhi, the true power of India will only be visible to the world when the collective expression of its people is allowed to emerge freely, rather than being suppressed by those in power.
Critique of Economic Policies and RSS Evolution
Rahul Gandhi also delved into the history and evolution of the RSS, claiming that the organization used to be a source of strength for small-scale businessmen. However, he alleged that the RSS itself betrayed these small businesses by supporting demonetization and the implementation of a flawed Goods and Services Tax (GST), which he believes decimated their livelihoods. He further claimed that the trend of corporate injection within the RSS was initiated by the late Pramod Mahajan and was subsequently carried forward by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This shift, according to Gandhi, has moved the focus away from the common man and small entrepreneurs toward large corporate interests.
The India-China Border Dispute
The Congress leader didn't hold back on the issue of national security, specifically targeting the government's handling of the border situation with China. He accused the government of trying to suppress news regarding China's actions, stating that China has prevented India from patrolling on its own land. Gandhi highlighted a contradiction between the Prime Minister's statements and the reports from the military. He noted that after the Galwan clash, PM Modi claimed that not an inch of Indian land was under foreign occupation, whereas the army had reported the occupation of land. Gandhi further alleged that during negotiations, the Chinese side used the Prime Minister's own denial against Indian interests, claiming that the Indian PM himself had denied any land grab.
Attacks on PM Modi and Amit Shah
Continuing his offensive, Rahul Gandhi claimed that the Modi government has devastated the country on multiple fronts, with its primary focus being the strengthening of its political structure and securing funds from industrialist Adani. He made personal remarks about the Prime Minister's state of mind, suggesting that Narendra Modi is unable to sleep at night due to various reasons, some obvious and others hidden. Gandhi also took a swipe at Home Minister Amit Shah, noting his absence from Parliament for 20 days. He remarked that those who were once hailed as Chanakya or compared to Sardar Patel have seemingly disappeared from the legislative floor, while gandhi concluded by stating that the government has finally realized that the people of this country won't be stopped from expressing themselves.