Congress leader Rahul Gandhi launched a sharp attack on the BJP during a Tamil Nadu rally, accusing it of spreading division and interfering in state politics.
Chennai: Addressing an election rally in Tamil Nadu, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi accused the BJP of fuelling division across the country and interfering in state politics, while asserting that his party stands for unity and social justice.
‘BJP set Manipur on fire’
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In a strong criticism of the ruling party, Gandhi alleged, “The BJP spreads hatred anger and violence across the country… The state of Manipur was set on fire by the BJP.” He also claimed that minorities in India are being made to feel unsafe, stating that communities including Muslims, Christians, and Sikhs are being “threatened and frightened.”
He emphasised that the Congress vision is centred on a “harmonious, fair and equal country” and said his party would not allow the spread of hatred.
‘AIADMK has become a hollow shell’
Targeting the AIADMK, Gandhi said the party had lost its earlier identity and independence. “The AIADMK of today is no longer that old party. Today it is a hollow shell,” he stated, alleging that its leadership has been compromised and is unable to act independently of the BJP.
He further claimed that the BJP is using the AIADMK as a political tool to expand its influence in Tamil Nadu, accusing the ruling party at the Centre of attempting to indirectly control the state.
‘RSS trying to rule Tamil Nadu by proxy’
Gandhi alleged that the RSS is attempting to control Tamil Nadu through indirect means. “The RSS is planning to, and trying to, rule Tamil Nadu by proxy,” he said, adding that the BJP wants to govern the state from Delhi rather than allowing local leadership to decide its future.
He contrasted this with his party’s stance, saying that every state should have the autonomy to govern itself and protect its own language, culture, and traditions.
Ideological battle over India’s future
Framing the political contest as ideological, Gandhi said there is a clash between two visions of India. According to him, the Congress believes in diversity and decentralisation, while the BJP seeks to impose a single identity across the country.
Referring to his Bharat Jodo Yatra, he said the initiative was aimed at promoting unity and harmony across different communities, traditions, and regions.
Focus on social justice and welfare
Highlighting Tamil Nadu’s development model, Rahul Gandhi credited past leaders for building a strong foundation based on social justice. He pointed to initiatives such as public education and welfare schemes as key achievements that should be strengthened.
He also outlined promises from his alliance, including enhanced financial support for women, assistance for farmers and vulnerable groups, and filling government job vacancies within a fixed timeline.
On the Women’s Reservation Bill passed in 2023, Gandhi reiterated his party’s demand for immediate implementation, stating that the opposition would fully support it if brought into effect without delay.
(With PTI inputs)
Published: 20 Apr 2026, 03:37 pm IST
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