In a fiery speech delivered at an event titled ‘Mohabbat ki Dukaan’ in San Francisco, Rahul Gandhi, former Congress Party leader, took a direct dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing him of arrogance and an inflated sense of knowledge. Addressing the Indian diaspora, Gandhi criticized the BJP’s approach and highlighted the importance of humility and respect for others.
Gandhi began by emphasizing the tradition in India, exemplified by leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi and Guru Nanak Dev Ji, which advocates against the impression of knowing everything. He referred to the BJP and certain groups in India, accusing them of suffering from a “disease” of believing they possess all-encompassing knowledge. Gandhi even quipped that if Prime Minister Modi were to sit with God, he would begin explaining to Him how the universe works, leaving God perplexed about His own creation.
“They (BJP) can speak to scientists and explain science to them. They can explain history to historians, warfare to the army, and flying to the air force. But at the heart of it, they don’t know anything,” Gandhi lamented.
Drawing on the recent Bharat Jodo Yatra, a walk that Gandhi undertook from Kanyakumari to Kashmir, he highlighted the necessity of connecting with the people, especially in a political climate where he believes traditional methods have been hindered by the BJP and its ideological affiliates. Gandhi expressed concern that individuals and agencies are being used to intimidate and suppress dissenting voices, making it challenging to engage in political activities.
“Normal instruments for doing politics were not working anymore. They were controlled by the BJP and RSS. People are threatened, and agencies are used against them. In some way, it had become quite difficult to act politically,” Gandhi explained.
Despite these challenges, Gandhi emphasized the significance of the Bharat Jodo (Unite India) initiative, which aims to foster respect, affection, and non-violence among people. He acknowledged the efforts of historical figures such as Guru Nanak Dev Ji, who advocated for unity and undertook journeys throughout different regions, and compared his own initiative to theirs.
Rahul Gandhi’s visit to San Francisco holds additional significance as he traveled on an ordinary passport after surrendering his diplomatic passport following his disqualification as a Lok Sabha MP. During his stay, he planned to interact with the Indian diaspora, venture capitalists, tech executives, and students in Silicon Valley.
The event received a warm welcome as Indian Overseas Congress chairman Sam Pitroda and other leaders greeted Rahul Gandhi upon his arrival at San Francisco Airport.
Gandhi’s speech in San Francisco showcased his critical stance toward Prime Minister Modi and the BJP government while emphasizing the need for humility, respect, and unity in Indian politics. As the former Congress Party leader continues to engage with the Indian diaspora and various stakeholders during his visit to the United States, his words are likely to spark discussions and debates on the current state of Indian politics.
