Kottayam: Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Monday sharpened his attack on the BJP-led Centre and the ruling LDF in Kerala, raising concerns over proposed amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) and highlighting the issue of rubber prices during his election campaign in Kottayam.

Addressing a rally in Puthuppally, Gandhi alleged that the proposed FCRA amendments would favour the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) by allowing it exclusive access to foreign funding.

"Suddenly, we noticed that an FCRA bill had been brought in. The interesting thing is that there is only one organisation that can get money from abroad. No other organisation can get money from abroad except the RSS," he alleged.

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The Congress leader further claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi could access foreign finances through industrialist Gautam Adani, while the RSS would benefit under the proposed norms.

"What is special about the RSS that there are separate rules for them? They spread hatred and divide people. That is how the BJP functions," he said.

Gandhi also accused the Centre of implementing policies that, he said, offer little benefit to ordinary citizens.

Turning to local concerns, he flagged the issue of rubber farmers in Kottayam, often referred to as the “land of latex”, and criticised the LDF for failing to deliver on its earlier promises.

"In 2016, the LDF promised to fix rubber prices at Rs 250 per kg. In 2026, they are talking about Rs 200, while the current market price is around Rs 220," he said.

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He assured that a Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) government would prioritise farmers’ welfare and ensure price stability.

"We are not in the business of making false promises. Our aim is to protect farmers and improve their livelihoods. The first decision of a UDF government will be to fix the rubber price at Rs 250," he said.

Gandhi added that the party’s manifesto envisions a phased increase in rubber prices.

"It is our commitment that on the first day of our government, the price will be Rs 250, and then it will increase further," he said.

Recalling former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, Gandhi said he had specifically chosen to campaign in Puthuppally, a constituency Chandy represented for over five decades.

He also remembered Chandy walking alongside him during the Bharat Jodo Yatra despite health issues, adding that the massive turnout at his funeral reflected his deep connection with the people.

Chandy’s son and sitting MLA, Chandy Oommen, is contesting from the Puthuppally constituency.