Congress leader Udit Raj launched a scathing attack on the Narendra Modi-led government on Friday, accusing it of weakening India’s manufacturing sector and increasing the country’s dependence on imports, particularly from China. Raj’s remarks came in response to Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut’s fiery speech on Dussehra, where he called for political change at the Centre and said it was “time to burn Delhi’s Raavans”.
Udit Raj not only endorsed Raut’s remarks but also took a swipe at PM Modi, saying, “PM Modi is a symbol of modern Ravana, and the way he is building his golden palace, once he enters it, he will see the same golden palace burn.” Raj criticised the government’s economic policies, stating that they have severely compromised India’s self-reliance.
Highlighting the country’s growing dependence on imports, Raj said, “Our dependence on other countries for goods, commodities, and essentials has increased drastically, and our manufacturing has declined sharply, which needs urgent revival.” He also praised Rahul Gandhi’s “Vocal for Local” initiative, saying it was the right approach to promote domestic production.
Udit Raj also questioned PM Modi’s accessibility, comparing it unfavourably with former PM Manmohan Singh. “When Manmohan Singh was PM, despite not being in any major position, I was able to meet him multiple times, even on issues like reservations. That system of accessibility has collapsed. The PMO is no longer open to the public,” Raj said.
The BJP responded to Udit Raj’s remarks, with spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari accusing Rahul Gandhi of “giving instructions” to Raj to abuse India and PM Modi. “Rahul Gandhi has given a clear instruction to Udit Raj: Get up every morning and abuse India, speak ill against PM Modi,” Bhandari said.