In a stirring speech at the ‘Maharashtra Swabhiman Sabha’ rally in Nandurbar, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi sharply criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent remarks about India’s constitution. Gandhi condemned Modi for referring to the constitution as “blank pages,” calling it an insult to iconic leaders like Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, Birsa Munda, and Mahatma Phule. He emphasized that the real battle today is to protect India’s constitution, which embodies the values of these great leaders.
During the rally, Gandhi outlined key promises for the state if the Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi (MVA) forms the government. He assured that an MVA-led government would conduct a caste census in Maharashtra, aimed at assessing the representation of tribal, scheduled caste, and OBC communities. Gandhi also pledged to remove the 50% cap on reservations, ensuring greater inclusion for these groups.
He also announced a series of welfare initiatives. Under the Mahalaxmi scheme, women would receive ₹3,000 per month, along with free bus travel. Additionally, the MVA government would grant farm loan waivers up to ₹3 lakh, provide guaranteed prices for key crops like soybean and cotton, and offer ₹25 lakh health insurance to eligible citizens.
Gandhi further criticized the ruling BJP for its stance on tribal communities, particularly its use of the term “Vanvasi” (meaning those who live in the jungle). He reminded the crowd that the constitution recognizes them as “Adivasi,” the first residents and rightful owners of India’s land, water, and forests. Gandhi argued that the BJP’s approach mirrors the colonial mindset of the British, who deprived Adivasis of their rights. He said the BJP’s disregard for the constitution and its disrespect for Adivasis reflects a continued assault on India’s values.
The rally, attended by Congress Maharashtra in-charge Ramesh Chennithala and other local candidates, set the stage for the upcoming elections, with Gandhi positioning the MVA as the true defender of the constitution and the oppressed communities in the state.
