Rahul Gandhi Criticizes Arvind Kejriwal, Draws Parallels with PM Modi at Delhi Rally

Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, speaking at a rally in Delhi’s Seelampur on Monday, criticized his INDIA bloc ally and AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal, drawing comparisons between him and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Gandhi accused both leaders of ignoring critical issues like the caste census and aligning with policies that marginalize underprivileged communities.

Caste Census and Economic Inequality

“Neither Modi nor Kejriwal speak about the caste census because they do not want backward classes, Dalits, tribals, or minorities to receive their due,” Gandhi said, urging voters to question both leaders on their stance. He alleged that billionaires like Adani and Ambani control national resources while the poor suffer. “Adani and Ambani do Modi’s marketing. Have you ever heard Kejriwal speak against them? He hasn’t uttered a single word,” he added.

AAP’s Response

Responding on social media platform X, Kejriwal said, “Rahul Gandhi ji came to Delhi and abused me a lot. I will not comment on his statements. His fight is to save the Congress, and my fight is to save the country.”

Opposition Coalition Tensions

Gandhi’s remarks come amid signs of discord within the Opposition INDIA bloc, where some allies, including the Samajwadi Party and Trinamool Congress, have recently supported AAP over Congress on specific issues. Despite being coalition partners, both Congress and AAP are contesting the upcoming February 5 Delhi Assembly elections separately.

Criticism of Governance in Delhi

In his speech, Gandhi accused Kejriwal of adopting Modi’s “propaganda and false promises” strategy, citing rising pollution, inflation, and corruption in Delhi. “Kejriwal promised to eliminate corruption and transform Delhi into Paris. Instead, pollution has worsened, people are falling sick, and corruption continues unabated,” he said.

The Congress leader contrasted his party’s governance record under Sheila Dikshit with the current administration. “The Congress will ensure development as we did in the past; neither Kejriwal nor BJP can do what we can,” he asserted, urging voters to back the party for a brighter future.

Commitment to Social Justice

Reaffirming Congress’s commitment to protecting all citizens, Gandhi said, “If any person, irrespective of religion or caste, is attacked, the Congress will stand with them.” He promised a caste survey in Delhi and the removal of reservation caps if elected, emphasizing the party’s inclusive vision.

A Battle of Ideology

Framing the elections as a fight for India’s constitutional values, Gandhi accused the BJP-RSS of spreading hatred and undermining Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s vision. “We walked from Kanyakumari to Kashmir to protect the Constitution. Ambedkar’s Constitution is attacked daily by Modi and the BJP-RSS,” he said.

The rally, themed “Jai Bapu, Jai Bhim, and Jai Samvidhan,” underscored Congress’s focus on equality and justice, with visuals of Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. Ambedkar adorning the venue. Gandhi concluded with a call for unity, asserting that the Congress remains committed to fostering dreams for all, irrespective of caste or religion.