Bypoll verdict: BJP's fear and illusion strategy crumbling, says Rahul Gandhi

New Delhi: The Congress Party celebrated its success in the recent assembly bypolls, where the INDIA bloc, comprising various opposition parties, secured victory in 10 out of 13 seats. Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, emphasised that the results signalled the collapse of the BJP's strategy of "fear and illusion."

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge praised party workers, interpreting the outcome as a clear rejection of the BJP's "arrogance, misgovernance, and negative politics." The INDIA bloc, which includes Congress, TMC, AAP, and DMK, dominated the polls, with the BJP managing to secure only two seats, while an Independent candidate won one.

Kharge expressed gratitude to voters and credited Congress workers for their perseverance in challenging circumstances. He underscored that the results underscored public dissatisfaction with the BJP's policies.

In his reaction, Rahul Gandhi highlighted the electorate's rejection of BJP's fear-mongering tactics. He emphasised widespread support across various demographics—farmers, youth, labourers, businessmen, and employees—for ending what he termed as dictatorial governance in favour of justice and constitutional values.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra echoed similar sentiments, noting the electorate's backing for the INDIA bloc across the country. She particularly praised victories in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, emphasising the public's preference for constructive politics over divisiveness.

Congress General Secretary K C Venugopal hailed the bypoll results as a triumph for democracy and a blow to the BJP's divisive agenda. He celebrated the INDIA bloc's success in 10 seats, asserting that it reflects the public's rejection of BJP's anti-people policies.

Jairam Ramesh, another Congress leader, underscored the political shift evident in the results. He highlighted victories in Manglaur and Badrinath, where the Congress reclaimed seats from the BSP and a defected BJP MLA, respectively.

Pawan Khera, head of Congress' media and publicity department, criticised BJP's handling of the electoral process, alleging administrative bias and malpractice in some constituencies. He accused the BJP of undermining democratic norms and accountability, urging for a renewed political landscape driven by transparency and responsiveness.

The bypoll outcome is considered as a significant political statement against the BJP's governance style and ideological positions. The Congress, buoyed by these wins, reaffirmed its commitment to advancing a pro-people agenda and defending democratic principles in the face of future electoral challenges. PTI