'Mamata Banerjee ruined Bengal's industry, Modi doing same to country': Rahul Gandhi in Malda rally

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi began his West Bengal election campaign with a series of strong and wide-ranging attacks on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Bharatiya Janata Party, and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, addressing a rally in Raiganj. His remarks covered issues ranging from alleged corporate links and institutional control to democracy, employment, and ideological conflict, setting the tone for an aggressive campaign ahead of polling. He also mentioned that Mamata Banerjee has destroyed Bengal's industry and Prime Minister Narendra Modi is busy in destroying the country's industry.

In one of his most direct personal attacks, Rahul Gandhi claimed that Narendra Modi had “lost his confidence” and said that despite projecting strength, he “cannot look him in the eye and speak.” He further alleged that Modi is under the influence of former US President Donald Trump, stating that “control is in Trump’s hands.” Referring to discussions in Parliament, Rahul Gandhi brought up the issue of Epstein files, claiming that sensitive information involving Indian figures exists and is linked to international pressure, though no official confirmation of such claims was presented.

He also launched a sharp attack over alleged links between the ruling party and corporate interests, particularly targeting the Adani Group. Rahul Gandhi claimed that a new political system had been created where financial resources are centralised, alleging that the BJP works in alignment with corporate entities. He described this alleged relationship as “Modani,” suggesting a close connection between political power and corporate backing.

Addressing concerns about democratic institutions, Rahul Gandhi accused the BJP and RSS of attempting to weaken the Constitution. He alleged that institutions are being influenced by placing loyal individuals in key positions and claimed that electoral manipulation and “vote theft” were being used to undermine democracy. He stated that direct attacks on the Constitution are avoided publicly, but are carried out indirectly whenever possible.

Framing the broader political battle as ideological, Rahul Gandhi said that his party’s fight is against what he described as a “hateful ideology” of the BJP and RSS. Recalling his Bharat Jodo Yatra, he emphasised a message of unity, saying that the country stands for love and not division. He stated that progress can only be achieved through harmony and rejected politics based on hatred and violence. His rally marked the beginning of a multi-district campaign across North Dinajpur, Malda, and Murshidabad as elections approach.