Washington DC, September 10 (ANI): Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, has intensified his criticism of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government during his ongoing visit to the United States. His remarks, delivered at various universities and events, reflect a renewed emphasis on the issues that shaped the Congress party’s parliamentary campaign, including calls for a caste census and criticisms of the current electoral process.
Focus on Electoral Fairness and Caste Representation
Gandhi has expressed dissatisfaction with the fairness of recent elections in India, alleging that the electoral process was manipulated in favor of the ruling BJP. “When you see the Prime Minister now in Parliament, he is psychologically trapped and he cannot understand how this has happened,” Gandhi said during an interaction at Georgetown University. He argued that the BJP’s financial advantage and control over institutions undermined the integrity of the election process.
Gandhi reiterated the need for a caste census to ensure fair representation for marginalized communities. He criticized the current situation where 90% of the population—comprising OBCs, Dalits, and Adivasis—lacks adequate participation in key sectors like business, media, and the judiciary. “If we talk about India becoming a modern nation, we have to address the participation of 90% of our population. It’s not just about caste or religion; it’s about fairness,” he emphasized.
Criticism of Hindutva and Secularism
Gandhi also touched upon issues of secularism and Hindutva. He described Indian secularism as a harmonious blend of diverse traditions and perspectives, contrasting it with the BJP and RSS’s approach, which he views as divisive. “India is a union of languages, traditions, and religions. We don’t need to redefine it; it’s already there,” Gandhi asserted.
He criticized Hindutva for focusing excessively on the past rather than envisioning a progressive future for India. “Hindutva’s proposal is to talk about the past instead of imagining the future, which is dangerous and boring for a country as large as India,” he remarked.
Empathy and Political Strategy
Despite his criticisms, Gandhi expressed empathy towards Prime Minister Modi, acknowledging their differing viewpoints. “I don’t hate Mr Modi. I have empathy and compassion for what he is doing. It’s important to understand each other’s perspectives,” Gandhi said.
Regarding the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), Gandhi was cautious, stating that the Congress party has yet to see a concrete proposal from the BJP. “When they present it, we will examine it and comment accordingly,” he noted.
Rahul Gandhi’s remarks during his US tour underscore his focus on addressing institutional biases, advocating for greater fairness in elections, and defending India’s secular fabric against perceived threats. His critiques of the Modi government and its policies reflect ongoing debates about the future direction of Indian politics.
Leave a Reply