TMC paved way for BJP in Bengal: Rahul Gandhi

Launching a blistering attack ahead of the Assembly elections, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of undermining democracy, weakening institutions, and pushing both the country and the state into economic and political distress.

Addressing an election rally in Raiganj, Gandhi alleged that the BJP was attempting to “steal votes” in West Bengal under the pretext of the SIR exercise, claiming that the party had increasingly resorted to such tactics due to its inability to win elections through democratic means.

Advertisement

Turning his guns on the ruling Trinamul Congress, Gandhi held it directly responsible for the BJP’s rise in the state. “It is the TMC that paved the way for the BJP in Bengal. Had the ruling party delivered on governance, the BJP would never have found space to expand here,” he said.

He further alleged that the TMC had failed to prevent electoral irregularities. “The party could neither stop vote theft nor ensure inclusion of genuine voters during the SIR process. Support the Congress, and once in power, we will ensure your names are included in the electoral rolls,” he told the gathering.

In a sharp critique of the Centre, Gandhi accused the Modi government of “handing over the country to the United States,” alleging that India’s economic and industrial interests were being compromised. He claimed that key sectors such as agriculture and energy were increasingly influenced by foreign forces, posing risks to farmers and the broader population.

Highlighting unemployment and industrial stagnation, Gandhi referred to the Trinamul Congress’s 2021 promise of five lakh jobs, contrasting it with the growing number of unemployed youth dependent on dole schemes. “Industries in Bengal have collapsed, factories are shutting down, and people are facing immense hardship,” he said.

In a sweeping attack on both the BJP and the TMC, Gandhi accused the two parties of practising “politics of violence and falsehood,” alleging widespread corruption and taking a swipe at the alleged “syndicate raj” in the state.

Beginning his speech by paying tribute to BR Ambedkar, Gandhi expressed concern over what he described as systematic attempts by the BJP and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh to weaken the Constitution. He alleged that key institutions were being compromised by placing loyalists in influential positions.

Bringing in an international dimension, Gandhi claimed that Prime Minister Modi’s “political leverage” lay with former US President Donald Trump, suggesting that India’s foreign and economic policies were being influenced externally.

He also took a personal swipe at Modi, alleging that the Prime Minister “cannot look him in the eye,” and claimed that Modi had attempted to interrupt him during a parliamentary debate but walked out when he failed to do so.

In a controversial remark at a rally in Chanchal, Gandhi said, “Narendra Modi is not a patriot; he is a traitor to the nation,” triggering sharp political reactions.

Referring to alleged Epstein-related documents, Gandhi further claimed that names of several Indian political figures, including BJP leaders and Modi, were mentioned ~ asserting that such factors gave Trump leverage over Indian leadership. He alleged that fear of these disclosures kept Modi “submissive.”

Positioning the Congress as a viable alternative, Gandhi asserted: “Only Congress can defeat the BJP, and the BJP is afraid of me.” He said his party stood for unity, love, and non-violence, in contrast to what he described as divisive politics.

Outlining key promises, Gandhi highlighted five major elements of the Congress manifesto, including a proposed health insurance cover of Rs 10 lakh, free education and skill training, 200 units of free electricity for farmers, and monthly financial assistance of Rs 2,000 for women, inspired by the Kerala model.

He concluded by urging voters to support Congress candidates to bring about political change in West Bengal.