Kolkata: Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, took a strong stance during a rally on Tuesday, claiming that India cannot purchase oil from Iran or Russia without approval from President Trump. He criticized the BJP and RSS for promoting a divisive ideology that, he claimed, undermines the Constitution and democracy, and accused the BJP of “vote chori,” or stealing votes.
Gandhi expressed concerns about the impact of a trade deal between India and the US on the agricultural sector. He warned that farmers in India, who often operate on small land holdings, would suffer greatly since American farmers, with their large, mechanized operations, would be able to sell their products, such as almonds and soya, in India.
Furthermore, Gandhi alleged that Prime Minister Modi and other BJP leaders appear in the Epstein files, suggesting that Trump has some control over Modi. “The key to the Epstein files is in Trump’s hands,” he stated.
During his speeches, Gandhi evoked the legacies of leaders like Ambedkar, Gandhi, and Nehru, noting that the current administration’s “hate-filled” ideology threatens the democratic values they established. He urged for a return to principles of non-violence and love while speaking to supporters in Raniganj, Malda, and Murshidabad — areas known for their historical ties to the Congress Party.
He further criticized Modi for allegedly aligning closely with businessman Adani, claiming that campaign funds and media support come from this relationship, coining it the “Modani company.”
Gandhi did not spare the Trinamool Congress (TMC) either, accusing them of being no different from the BJP. He highlighted various scams, including the Saradha Chit fund scam, which cost investors enormous amounts, and alleged corruption and mismanagement within TMC leadership. He noted that the central government has failed to provide substantial funds for programs like MGNREGA and criticized both the BJP and TMC for their lack of accountability.
“We believe in unity over division,” Gandhi asserted, emphasizing Congress’s commitment to transcending religious and communal divides in politics.
