Rahul Gandhi Criticizes BJP's Control Over India's Institutions During Berlin Speech
Gandhi's Allegations Against BJP
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi reiterated his claims that the BJP is exerting control over India's institutional framework, which he described as an assault on the nation's democratic system.
Remarks Made in Berlin
While addressing an event at the Hertie School in Berlin, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha asserted that the central government has transformed investigative agencies into political tools. He alleged that there is a quid pro quo, where certain members of the business community are financially supporting the BJP instead of backing opposition parties.
Key Highlights of His Statement
Concerns Over Institutions: Gandhi accused the independence of institutions such as the judiciary, media, and election commission of being compromised.
International Critique: His comments were made during a dialogue event in Germany.
Democracy at Stake: He expressed his worries about the current state of Indian democracy on a global platform.
Systematic Control of Institutions
Gandhi stated that there is a systematic takeover of institutions, claiming that agencies like the ED and CBI are being selectively utilized. He argued that there are no substantial cases against the BJP, while most political cases target those opposing the ruling party. He further alleged that businessmen supporting Congress are being intimidated, asserting that the BJP is leveraging government institutions to strengthen its political power, highlighting the significant disparity between the ruling party and the opposition's resources.
Congress's Response Strategy
Gandhi announced that Congress will establish a framework of resistance to counter the takeover of institutions. He emphasized that this is not merely a battle against the BJP as a party, but a fight against its control over India's institutional system.
INDIA Alliance Dynamics
Regarding the INDIA alliance, Gandhi acknowledged that coalition partners are contesting against each other in some state and local elections, which he termed as 'strategic contests.' He noted that the alliance is united in opposing the ideology of the RSS.
Unity Against RSS Ideology
He stated, 'While all parties in the INDIA alliance may strategically differ, we stand united on the core issue of opposing the RSS worldview.' He mentioned that the coalition is aligned in Parliament against laws they oppose, arguing that this struggle extends beyond elections to envision an alternative for India.
Rejecting Centralized Control
Gandhi asserted that many Indians reject the vision of the center and the RSS, viewing the country as inherently complex and diverse. He argued that millions believe India cannot be governed by the will of a single individual, advocating for a model where the country operates through dialogue among its states.
Political Tensions and Future Outlook
He acknowledged that while many support Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a significant number disagree with his ideology and vision for India. Gandhi expressed his belief that this vision will ultimately fail, leading to deeper social tensions, and described the current political climate as a clash between two opposing ideologies.
Ongoing Visit to Germany
Rahul Gandhi is currently on a five-day trip to Germany. Previously, he had accused the RSS of seizing control of key institutions. During discussions on electoral reforms in Parliament, he claimed that the Election Commission of India is part of a larger effort to dominate constitutional bodies.
Social Media Reaction
#WATCH | Berlin, Germany | Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi says, "There is a wholesale capture of our institutional framework. Our intelligence agencies, ED and CBI have been weaponised. ED and CBI have zero cases against BJP and most of the political cases are against the people who… pic.twitter.com/ffaoEamAPI
— Media Channel (@MediaChannel) December 22, 2025