Former Congress President Rahul Gandhi strongly criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing them of trying to undermine democracy and the country’s constitution. Speaking at a public gathering in Sakri, Bilaspur district, Rahul Gandhi highlighted a clash of ideologies in India. He claimed that the Congress and INDI Alliance aim to protect the Constitution, while Narendra Modi and the RSS are allegedly working to dismantle it. According to Gandhi, BJP leaders openly threaten to destroy the Constitution and democracy if they win elections. He also pointed out economic disparities, stating that a few wealthy individuals in India own as much as 70 crore Indians, and criticised Modi for allegedly favouring these individuals over farmers. “Today there are 22 people in India who have as much wealth as 70 crore Indians. Narendra Modi ji did not waive the loans of farmers, but he waived off Rs 16 lakh crore of these 22-25 people. This is 24 years of MGNREGA money which they have waived off,” Rahul said. Rahul Gandhi promised that if the Congress comes to power, they will enact laws to ensure minimum support prices for farmers and remove the 50% cap on reservation.

 

Rahul Gandhi praised Bilaspur candidate Devendra Yadav as a resilient fighter for the Congress party, setting an example for party members on how to persevere in tough situations. Throughout his speech, he repeatedly referenced the Constitution, emphasising its importance in safeguarding everyone’s rights and ensuring reservations for marginalised communities. He warned against the dangers of privatisation and urged people to rally together to protect the Constitution in the upcoming elections. Gandhi also outlined the Congress party’s manifesto, focusing on initiatives for farmers, youth, women and people from all walks of life.

 

He criticised the BJP’s electoral claims and predicted they would struggle to secure a significant number of seats. Gandhi asserted that minority groups, tribals and the common people would vote to defend the Constitution and the country. Congress candidate Devendra Yadav also spoke on the occasion, former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, Congress General Secretary Incharge Sachin Pilot, State President Dipak Baij, MLAs Kawasi Lakma and Dr Charan Das Mahant, former MLA Jaisingh Agrawal, along with party members from Bilaspur and Mungeli districts were present. Tension arose before the event when the BMC’s encroachment squad removed Congress flags, banners and posters, citing code of conduct violations. This led to a heated exchange between party candidate and BMC officials.