Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, addressing a public meeting in Patparganj, took a sharp dig at the media and political rivals while highlighting pressing issues like pollution, inflation, and infrastructure. He accused the media of ignoring the real problems faced by the common people, stating, "The media doesn’t talk about pollution, inflation, or infrastructure. They are busy showing Ambani’s wedding, Modi ji, and Adani's airport."
Gandhi reiterated his call for unity and love, emphasising, "In this market of hatred, we want to open a shop of love. We don't want an India filled with fear and hatred; we need a country filled with love."
Attacks on BJP and AAP Leadership
Targeting the BJP and RSS, Gandhi alleged that their ideology promotes division. "The BJP and RSS pit brother against brother, spreading hatred and division," he said.
He also criticised Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, calling out his leadership and promises of clean governance. Referring to Kejriwal's initial claims of offering a new kind of politics, Gandhi remarked, "Do you remember how Kejriwal climbed poles, claiming to bring a different kind of politics? Have you seen his house? It’s no less than a glass palace."
He further alleged corruption under the AAP government, stating, "They came with promises of clean politics, and yet Delhi saw the biggest liquor scam under their rule."
Gandhi's remarks come amid a heated political atmosphere as the capital gears up for upcoming elections, with Congress striving to regain its relevance in Delhi politics.
Alleges insult to Ambedkar and Constitution
Rahul Gandhi, during a public address, launched a scathing attack on the BJP, RSS, and the policies benefiting billionaires like Adani and Ambani. Gandhi accused RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat of disrespecting Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and the Indian Constitution, stating, "Our Constitution is the fruit of our independence in 1947. But the BJP claims freedom was achieved only after the construction of the Ram Mandir."
He also criticised the exclusion of marginalised groups from significant events, referencing the Ram Mandir inauguration: "Our President was not allowed to attend. Only Adani and Ambani were visible at the inauguration—no sign of the poor."
Criticism of wealth concentration and policies favoring billionaires
Gandhi alleged that the BJP is turning India into a country for a privileged few. "Where does the Constitution say that ports, airports, and resources should be handed over to one billionaire? They are transferring the wealth of this nation to a few industrialists," he said.
He further questioned the lack of representation in corporate leadership: "Show me a Dalit or OBC person in Adani’s top management."
GST and Demonetisation: Policies for the wealthy?
Targeting the BJP's economic policies, Gandhi called GST and demonetisation "policies designed for billionaires." Highlighting inequality, he said, "You pay as much GST on a shirt as Adani does. Their policies are crafted for billionaires, not for the common man."
Media and the narrative of distraction
Gandhi criticised the media for failing to address real issues like unemployment and inequality. "Media never talks about jobs or real problems. Instead, they focus on Amitabh Bachchan's or Ambani's weddings. Their role is to distract people," he remarked.
A call for unity amid divisive politics
Highlighting the BJP’s alleged divisive agenda, Gandhi said, "They want to pit Hindus against Muslims and one caste against another. This is not the India we want."
In a symbolic moment during his speech, Gandhi paused to respect the sound of the Azaan, a gesture that resonated with his message of unity and inclusivity.
The Congress leader ended his address by urging people to stand against inequality and work towards a nation where opportunities are accessible to all, not just the elite.