Rahul Gandhi Criticizes BJP at Odisha Rally, Highlights Issues of Poverty and Corruption

On Friday, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi participated in a public gathering named the Constitution Save Rally in Odisha. This event is part of the party's efforts to rally support and raise awareness on critical issues. During his speech, Rahul launched a strong critique against the BJP, asserting that the sole agenda of the Odisha government is to seize the state's resources from its impoverished citizens. He pointed out that while the previous BJD government engaged in similar practices, the current BJP administration continues this trend. He emphasized the stark contrast between the impoverished populace of Odisha, including Dalits, tribals, backward classes, farmers, and laborers, and the handful of billionaires alongside the BJP government. He declared that this struggle is ongoing and that only Congress workers, in solidarity with the people of Odisha, can prevail in this fight.

Rahul further elaborated on his recent visit to Bihar, drawing parallels to the alleged electoral fraud in Maharashtra. He accused the Election Commission of orchestrating a new conspiracy to manipulate elections, claiming it operates like a branch of the BJP rather than an independent body. He noted that during the elections in Maharashtra, a million new voters were added to the rolls, raising questions about their origins. Despite repeated requests for access to the voter list and video documentation, the Election Commission has not complied. He warned that similar fraudulent activities are planned for Bihar, asserting that he and his party will not allow the BJP to steal the elections there.

The Congress leader accused the Adani group of effectively controlling the Odisha government and claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also under their influence. He referenced the Jagannath Yatra, where millions participate, only to highlight how the Adani family is given preferential treatment during the event. This, he argued, exemplifies the nature of the Odisha government, which he described as a regime serving the interests of a few billionaires rather than the people. He asserted that the BJP aims to rob citizens of their water, forests, and land.

Rahul Gandhi also raised alarming concerns regarding women's safety in Odisha, noting that over 40,000 women have gone missing without any trace. He highlighted the daily atrocities faced by women, including sexual violence, stating that approximately 15 women are raped every day in the state. He criticized the government for exploiting the populace while failing to protect them. He called upon Congress workers, whom he described as the 'lions' of Odisha, to stand up for the rights of the people. He reiterated that the BJP government is primarily focused on stealing wealth from the poor, a practice that has persisted from the BJD to the current BJP administration.