Rahul Gandhi Critiques RSS Leader's Comments During US Panel Discussion
In a recent panel discussion in Washington, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi condemned RSS leader Ram Madhav's remarks, labeling the organization as the 'National Surrender Organization.' Gandhi's comments followed Madhav's questioning of India's energy policies and its agreements with Iran and Russia. After facing criticism, Madhav acknowledged inaccuracies in his statements. This exchange highlights ongoing tensions regarding India's international relations and domestic policies.
Apr 25, 2026, 13:51 IST
Rahul Gandhi's Strong Rebuttal to RSS Remarks
On Saturday, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi sharply criticized senior RSS figure Ram Madhav for his remarks made during a panel discussion in the United States. Gandhi described Madhav's comments as revealing the true nature of the organization, labeling the RSS as the 'National Surrender Organization' and dismissing it as a fraudulent entity. In a social media post, he stated, 'National Surrender Organization. Fake nationalism in Nagpur. Utter servility in the USA. Ram Madhav has unveiled the true face of the Sangh.'
Gandhi's remarks followed Madhav's participation in a panel at the Hudson Institute's New India conference in Washington, D.C., where he discussed 'New Pathways for US-India Relations' alongside Ambassador Kurt Campbell and Elizabeth Threlkeld. During this discussion, Madhav raised concerns about India's energy and trade policies, questioning why, despite significant opposition, India agreed to halt oil purchases from Iran and Russia. He noted that India had tacitly accepted a 50% tariff, asking where the country's efforts to collaborate with the US were lacking.
After facing backlash for his comments, Madhav issued a clarification acknowledging factual inaccuracies. He admitted, 'What I said was incorrect. India has never agreed to stop oil imports from Russia. Additionally, it has strongly opposed the imposition of a 50% tariff. I was attempting to limit the rebuttal of another panelist's statement, but it was factually wrong. I apologize.'
The government had previously confirmed that India's position regarding reserves of crude oil, petroleum products, and LPG is stable. Sources indicated that India would increase supplies from other regions to compensate for potential disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz.