Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing him of supporting a select group of affluent Indian businessmen. Gandhi's criticism focused on the electoral bond issue, which he characterized as a method of coercion involving complex tactics where government bodies like the CBI, ED, and Income Tax Department are reportedly utilized against targeted individuals. He likened this intimidation strategy to common street extortion, highlighting the alleged involvement of central agencies in pressuring businessmen to comply with certain demands.
In his verbal assault on Modi, Gandhi alleged that the BJP-led central government employed intricate techniques to intimidate specific businessmen. He pointed out that under the guise of electoral bonds, individuals were purportedly coerced into actions beneficial to certain entities, like the Adani Group. Gandhi claimed that this strategy was reportedly used to facilitate deals such as Adani acquiring the Mumbai airport from its previous owner. Furthermore, he insinuated that these intimidatory tactics extended to the realm of electoral contributions, suggesting that businessmen were compelled to contribute to the BJP using electoral bonds.
During his public addresses, Gandhi referenced an interview where Modi defended the controversial electoral bond scheme, asserting that the BJP had allegedly amassed significant funds through coercive practices targeting Indian businessmen. The Congress leader charged Modi with lacking the competency to govern effectively, criticizing his administration for allegedly prioritizing the interests of a handful of wealthy individuals over addressing pressing national issues like farmer distress, unemployment, and inflation. Additionally, Gandhi pledged to prioritize financial assistance for impoverished individuals and enact legislation mandating paid internships for graduates and diploma holders in his hypothetical government.
Gandhi also took the opportunity to condemn the BJP and the RSS for their alleged attempts to undermine the Indian Constitution, positing this as a pivotal issue for the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections. He vowed to address local concerns in Wayanad, including challenges like night traffic bans, human-wildlife conflicts, and the absence of a medical college, promising to exert pressure on the state government to implement necessary improvements. As he engaged in a high-profile roadshow, Gandhi reiterated his dedication to addressing these issues and securing positive outcomes for the Wayanad constituency.