Nandurbar: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi reached Maharashtra election campaign. During this, he retaliated against PM Modi for carrying an empty Constitution. Rahul Gandhi said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi feels that the ‘Lal Kitab’ of the Constitution which he keeps with him is blank because he (Modi) has never read it. He was addressing a rally in Nandurbar. Rahul Gandhi said that the Constitution contains the soul of India and Birsa Munda, Dr. B. R. It includes the principles enunciated by national heroes like Ambedkar and Mahatma Gandhi. He said, ‘BJP has objection to the red color of the book. But for us, whatever be the colour, we are committed to save it (the Constitution) and are even ready to sacrifice our lives. Modi ji feels that the Constitution book is blank because he has never read it.
Retaliated against Lal Kitab
Gandhi, leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha, said Congress wants tribals, Dalits and backward classes to get representation in decision-making. BJP leaders have tried to link Gandhi’s displayed Lal Kitab with urban Naxalism in their campaign for the Maharashtra Assembly elections to be held on November 20.
Rahul Gandhi angry at calling tribals as forest dwellers
Gandhi alleged that Prime Minister Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) were insulting national heroes by making such comments. He alleged that BJP and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) insult the tribals by calling them forest dwellers instead of tribals. He said that tribals are the first owners of the country and they have the first right on water, forest and land. But BJP wants the tribals to remain in the forest, they have no rights. Birsa Munda had fought for this and sacrificed his life.
Maharashtra vs Gujarat issue raised again
Reiterating the demand for caste-based enumeration, Rahul Gandhi said it would help in ascertaining the number of tribals, Dalits and backward classes in Maharashtra and their share in resources. Gandhi claimed that currently out of the eight percent tribal population, they have only one percent stake in decision making. He also alleged that five lakh jobs have been snatched away from Maharashtra as various big projects have been shifted to other states.
How do historical figures like Birsa Munda and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar influence current political rhetoric in India?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Political Scholar
Time.news Editor: Welcome, everyone. Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Anjali Mehta, a renowned political scholar, to discuss the recent comments made by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi during his election campaign in Nandurbar, Maharashtra. Dr. Mehta, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Anjali Mehta: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to be here.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. Rahul Gandhi’s remarks about Prime Minister Modi carrying an “empty Constitution” sparked quite a bit of buzz. How do you interpret this metaphor, and what implications does it have for the current political climate?
Dr. Mehta: Rahul’s metaphor about an “empty Constitution” serves two purposes. Firstly, it suggests that Modi, in Gandhi’s view, does not truly understand or uphold the values enshrined in the Constitution. Secondly, it touches on a broader narrative of disconnection between the ruling party’s policies and the foundational principles of democracy that many believe the Constitution embodies. It positions the Congress as the protector of these ideals, which can resonate deeply with voters who cherish India’s democratic legacy.
Editor: That’s an insightful perspective. Gandhi emphasized that the Constitution “contains the soul of India” and referred to historical figures like Birsa Munda and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. Why do you think he chose to invoke these leaders during his speech?
Dr. Mehta: By invoking figures like Birsa Munda and Ambedkar, Gandhi is not only appealing to historical sentiment but also aligning himself with the struggle for social justice and equality, which these leaders championed. In Indian politics, invoking respected historical figures can galvanize support, particularly among marginalized sections of society. It also reinforces the idea that the Constitution is not merely a document, but a living testament to the struggles and aspirations of the Indian populace.
Editor: Interestingly, Gandhi also mentioned that the BJP has an issue with the “red color” of the Constitution. What do you think he meant by that? Is it purely symbolic or does it highlight deeper ideological differences?
Dr. Mehta: The color red can symbolize a variety of things, including revolution, socialism, and progress. By stating that the BJP has an objection to it, Gandhi implies that the BJP’s ideology is at odds with the inclusive, equitable principles many associate with the left. This is both a symbolic critique of the BJP’s approach to governance and a tangible commentary on the ideological divides within Indian politics today. It illustrates the ongoing struggle over not just policies but the very vision of India’s future.
Editor: Speaking of commitment to the Constitution, Gandhi claimed that the Congress Party is “ready to sacrifice” to save it. How does this rhetoric play into the current political strategies of the Congress Party?
Dr. Mehta: This rhetoric is quite strategic. It works to position the Congress as a party of custodianship, suggesting that they are willing to go to great lengths to protect democratic values, unlike their opponents. It establishes a moral high ground, appealing to voters’ emotional affiliations with the Constitution. In elections, such narratives can be particularly powerful, as they evoke a sense of duty and urgency around protecting democracy from perceived threats.
Editor: It’s fascinating how rhetoric can shape political landscapes. As we approach the elections, what do you think will be the most significant factors influencing voter sentiment in Maharashtra?
Dr. Mehta: A number of factors will play crucial roles. Economic issues, such as unemployment and inflation, have been significant concerns for voters that can overshadow ideological debates. Additionally, the ongoing relationship between voters and their representatives will matter; trust in leadership will be key. Lastly, social issues and how parties address them will resonate deeply amidst growing discussions on identity politics, especially in Maharashtra, which has diverse demographics.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Mehta, for these illuminating insights. It’s clear that the political landscape in India is evolving, and the upcoming elections will undoubtedly reflect deeper societal sentiments. We appreciate your time and expertise.
Dr. Mehta: Thank you for having me! It’s an exciting time in Indian politics, and I look forward to seeing how it unfolds.