Congress Member of Parliament and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, criticized the Narendra Modi government on Thursday, stating that the primary challenge facing India is the ongoing attack on its democracy.
Speaking at an event at the EIA University of Colombia on October 2, Gandhi expressed optimism about India’s future but highlighted existing fault lines within the country’s democratic system that need addressing. “The single biggest issue is the attack on democracy that is taking place in India,” he said. He emphasized that India represents a dialogue among its diverse population, where various traditions, religions, and ideas should coexist. “The best method for creating that space is the democratic system,” he added.
Gandhi pointed out that there is currently a systemic assault on democracy, which poses a significant risk. He also mentioned the tensions arising from differing conceptions in various parts of the country, noting the importance of allowing India’s diversity—reflected in its 16-17 major languages and numerous religions—to flourish. “We cannot do what China does—suppress voices and run an authoritarian society,” he asserted.
In comparing India to China, Gandhi stated, “India is a completely different system than China.” He elaborated that while China’s governance is centralized and uniform, India is decentralized, characterized by multiple languages, cultures, and traditions. “India is a much more complex system. And India’s strengths are not necessarily China’s strengths; they are different,” he explained.
During his address, Gandhi also remarked on India’s perceived global standing, saying, “I don’t think India sees itself as leading the world. We are a large country, and we believe in partnerships.” He added, “We are not arrogant enough to believe that we should lead the world. The idea that India should lead the world—India doesn’t view itself like this; maybe China thinks of itself this way.”
Following Gandhi’s remarks, BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad criticized him, accusing the Congress leader of insulting India during his international visit. “Everything Rahul Gandhi says is baseless,” he charged, further stating, “When he is abroad, he says there is no democracy in India.” Prasad claimed that Gandhi’s criticisms would undermine his electoral prospects, suggesting that “the public will not vote for you.”
Prasad also responded to Gandhi’s comments on China, questioning his implications. “Your love for China is evident,” he stated. He reaffirmed India’s economic progress, noting, “Today, India is the world’s fourth-largest economy and is on its way to becoming the third.”
Moreover, BJP MP Kangana Ranaut condemned Gandhi’s statements, labeling him a “disgrace.” She criticized him for suggesting that citizens do not know what is good for them and stated, “He brings shame to the nation, and the nation is ashamed of him.”
