Pathanamthitta, Kerala: Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Monday slammed the BJP and the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) in Kerala, picking up on a “Made in China” label on his microphone to underline his criticism of government policies.

Addressing a public rally in Pathanamthitta ahead of the 2026 Kerala Assembly elections, Gandhi said, "I was looking at the mic when I started this speech and here it is written 'Made In China', why on this mic, it is not written - 'Country of origin India', 'State of origin Kerala'? How are we expecting the youth of Kerala will get jobs if we do not have things made in India? And how are we ever going to make things in Kerala if only 1 or 2 companies control the future of Kerala?... Your CM and the PM are handing this country over to Adani and Ambani..."

Gandhi’s comments come amid his broader campaign against what he called the “hidden hand” of the BJP in Kerala, alleging that the LDF operates under the influence of the ruling party at the Centre. He has repeatedly claimed that the BJP seeks to prevent the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) from returning to power in the state and accused the BJP of targeting those who oppose it, including himself.

He also accused the LDF of failing to function as a true Left government, alleging it has a “corporate nature” and is backed by corporate funding. Raising local issues, Gandhi said the previous UDF government had supported rubber farmers, while the current LDF government had failed to provide compensation.

The Congress leader further referred to international developments, alleging that legal action against the Adani Group in the United States indirectly targets Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He also criticised Modi over the Jeffrey Epstein issue, claiming the Prime Minister avoided discussion in Parliament. Gandhi added that Modi had “surrendered” to Donald Trump, and similarly alleged that Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had “surrendered” to Modi.

Gandhi formally kicked off his campaign for the 2026 Kerala Assembly elections on Monday, departing from Delhi to address a series of public meetings across the state. He had earlier launched the UDF’s campaign in Kozhikode on March 25, focusing on governance, development, and welfare.