Rahul Gandhi Claims Fear of PM Modi Has Faded Post-2024 Lok Sabha Elections
Rahul Gandhi has once again targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), claiming that the “fear” associated with Modi has diminished since the results of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Speaking at an event held in Herndon, Virginia, for the Indian diaspora, the Congress leader emphasized that despite years of building a climate of fear and pressure, particularly on small businesses, it all disappeared quickly post-elections. He remarked, “Darr nahi lagta ab, dar nikal gaya ab,” translating to “We are no longer afraid; the fear is gone.”
During his address, Rahul Gandhi explained how the BJP, under Modi’s leadership, had systematically created an environment of fear through the use of various government agencies. However, he claimed that this fear has now dissipated. “The fear and pressure the BJP and PM Modi spread on small businesses have vanished,” Gandhi said, adding that it took years to instill this fear, but it evaporated in mere moments.
Gandhi, who has been increasingly vocal in his criticism of Modi, also made a statement regarding the Prime Minister’s image. He referenced Modi’s previous portrayal as a strong leader, saying, “The idea of Mr. Modi, 56-inch chest, direct connection with God, that’s all gone now, it’s all history.”
Apart from addressing the diaspora, Gandhi had met with students at Georgetown University earlier, followed by his engagement in Virginia. His criticism of the BJP extended to the party’s understanding of the Indian Constitution. Gandhi accused the BJP of failing to recognize India’s diversity, alleging that they promote a more homogenous view of the country, while ignoring its union of states, languages, and traditions. “The BJP doesn’t understand that this country is for everyone. India is a union, and this is clearly stated in the Constitution,” he said.
While the BJP has not officially responded to Rahul Gandhi’s remarks, the party had, in earlier instances, condemned his speeches abroad. On a previous occasion, BJP spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia had criticized Gandhi for undermining Indian democracy on foreign soil. Bhatia described Gandhi as a “black spot” on Indian democracy and questioned his leadership capabilities, highlighting his lack of maturity and the apparent contradictions in his speeches.
Bhatia also accused Gandhi of acting in alignment with the Chinese Communist Party, referencing an old Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Congress and the Chinese government during the UPA rule. He went on to criticize Gandhi for his remarks on the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), where the Congress leader had alleged that the RSS and BJP sought to confine women to specific roles within society, restricting their freedom and ambitions. According to Gandhi, the BJP and RSS view women as suited primarily for domestic responsibilities. “The BJP and RSS believe that women should be restricted to a particular role, they should stay at home, cook the food, and not talk too much,” Gandhi said.
In contrast, Gandhi positioned the Congress as a party that champions women’s freedom and equal opportunities, claiming that Congress supports women aspiring to achieve anything they set their sights on. Furthermore, he accused the RSS of reducing India to a single idea, while Congress and its supporters view the country as a union of multiple ideas, histories, and cultures.
As Rahul Gandhi continues to voice his criticisms both in India and abroad, the political atmosphere remains charged ahead of the next electoral cycle. His ongoing remarks against the BJP and Narendra Modi have consistently sparked debate within India, with the ruling party often countering his accusations by questioning his leadership and intentions.
With the 2024 Lok Sabha election results fresh, Gandhi’s statements reflect his renewed confidence, while the BJP remains steadfast in defending its policies and leadership. Whether this rhetoric will have a lasting impact on the political landscape remains to be seen, but for now, it is clear that both sides are gearing up for further political battles in the near future.