Rahul Gandhi has reacted to reports of objections raised by two Election Commissioners over decisions linked to the electoral roll revision process. The report said the commissioners raised objections 14 times over a 10-month period.

Leader of opposition Rahul Gandhi leads the charge against CeC Gyanesh Kumar 

Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi on Thursday (September 24) launched a sharp attack on Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and the Narendra Modi government over the functioning of the Election Commission of India (ECI).&nbsp;Gandhi demanded that Gyanesh Kumar resign immediately and alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah were the “main conspirators”. He also called for an investigation against them.&nbsp;Addressing a press conference on the functioning of the ECI following media reports related to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process, Gandhi said the issue was not limited to the vote.“The thing to understand here is that if the vote has been destroyed, then our Constitution has been destroyed,” Gandhi said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Reacting to Indian Express report on 2 ECs objecting to discrepancies in SIR process, LoP Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi says, &quot;The first thing we are saying is Mr. Gyanesh Kumar must resign immediately. I would add to Mr. Gyanesh Kumar: You are a highly educated person.… <a href="https://t.co/hCACV3lYT7">pic.twitter.com/hCACV3lYT7</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2103103814694031392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

He added that the Constitution would no longer have its power or function if the vote was destroyed.“If our Constitution has been destroyed, our laws are illegal,” he said. “And if our laws are illegal, our institutions are meaningless.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-will-consider-trump-s-g20-invitation-to-putin-eu-vows-to-keep-condemning-moscow-1790249580564">Russia will ‘consider’ Trump’s G20 invitation to Putin; EU vows to keep condemning Moscow</a>&nbsp;The development comes amid a growing row over the functioning of the Election Commission of India (ECI), following fresh allegations and political exchanges over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process.&nbsp;The Indian Express reported that the Goa Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) wrote to authorities in Delhi eight times in seven days seeking access to certain facilities but received no response.&nbsp;The report came after an earlier media report claimed that Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi, who work with the CEC, raised objections at least 14 times over 10 months to decisions and orders linked to the SIR process.<h2>Rahul Gandhi questions anti-incumbency</h2>Gandhi also questioned what he described as the disappearance of anti-incumbency in several states.“Haryana swings from one party to another for 50 years. Suddenly anti-incumbency disappears,” he said.&nbsp;He then cited Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat, saying that anti-incumbency had also “disappeared” in these states.&nbsp;“We can understand the popularity of a person, and the performance of a government, but we cannot understand how anti-incumbency disappears,” Gandhi said.&nbsp;The Congress leader further compared the absence of anti-incumbency with countries he cited as examples of non-democratic systems.“Anti-incumbency does not exist in Saddam Hussein's Iraq. It does not exist in North Korea,” he said, adding, “There is no democracy on this planet where anti-incumbency does not exist.”&nbsp;Gandhi said the vote, protected by the Election Commission, was directly connected to the functioning of the Constitution, laws, and institutions.&nbsp;"From the vote, which is supposed to be protected by the Election Commission, our Constitution gets its power. From the Constitution, our laws are made, and from our laws emerge our institutions. This is a chain... If the vote has been destroyed, then our Constitution has been destroyed... If our Constitution has been destroyed, our laws are illegal. If our laws are illegal, our institutions are meaningless," he said.

Rahul Gandhi questioned the disappearance of anti-incumbency in several states, alleged “vote chori” and called for Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar’s resignation.

Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi on Thursday (September 24) launched a sharp attack on Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and the Narendra Modi government over the functioning of the Election Commission of India (ECI). Gandhi demanded that Gyanesh Kumar resign immediately and alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah were the “main conspirators”. He also called for an investigation against them. Addressing a press conference on the functioning of the ECI following media reports related to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process, Gandhi said the issue was not limited to the vote. “The thing to understand here is that if the vote has been destroyed, then our Constitution has been destroyed,” Gandhi said.

Rahul Gandhi questioned the disappearance of anti-incumbency in several states, alleged “vote chori” and called for Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar’s resignation.

‘How does anti-incumbency disappear?’: Rahul Gandhi alleges ‘vote chori’, calls for CEC’s resignation

A stand-up comedian who took swipes at top BJP leaders and mocked PM Modi at a Congress party event announced on Tuesday (September 22) to cancel his shows in Noida, Lucknow and Kanpur. The comedian, known as Pulkit Mani, came to light after he had teamed up with Rahul Gandhi on stage at the Congress's 'Chhatron Ki Goonj' event in Madhya Pradesh's Indore. A clip circulating online, shared from Congress's official X account, shows both individuals sharing a laugh on stage in front of a large audience after they cracked jokes and did mimicry alluding to the prime minister and other BJP leaders. Mani, who goes by the handle 'hunnywhoisfunny' on Instagram, shared a post on Instagram's 'story ' announcing the cancellation of his scheduled shows, citing "unforeseen circumstances." "I regret to inform you that my Noida show has been cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances. I sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding and support," Mani said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iit-bombay-student-death-cctv-footage-becomes-key-evidence-as-police-reconstruct-sahil-wakode-s-final-hours-1790049754320">IIT Bombay student death: CCTV footage becomes key evidence as police reconstruct Sahil Wakode's final hours</a><h3>Mani cancels Lucknow and Kanpur events</h3>In a separate update on Instagram, he mentioned that his upcoming performances in Lucknow and Kanpur had also been called off, "due to repeated threats from goon activists." This came a day after BJP leaders hit out at Rahul Gandhi for remarks he made about PM Narendra Modi during the 'Chhatron Ki Goonj' event. CR Kesavan, the BJP's national spokesperson, said in a video message that no sensible or respectable person would have been entertained by what he called vulgar, low-grade humour, yet Rahul Gandhi was visibly enjoying himself, laughing openly while seated alongside them on stage.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/heartwarming-rescue-two-fishermen-rescue-elephant-calf-being-swept-away-in-teesta-river-reunite-it-with-mother-1790058865745">Heartwarming rescue: Two fishermen rescue Elephant calf being swept away in Teesta river, reunite it with mother | WATCH</a>

A clip circulating online, shared from Congress's official X account, shows both individuals laughing on stage in front of a large audience after they cracked jokes and did mimicry alluding to the prime minister and other BJP leaders.

A stand-up comedian who took swipes at top BJP leaders and mocked PM Modi at a Congress party event announced on Tuesday (September 22) to cancel his shows in Noida, Lucknow and Kanpur. The comedian, known as Pulkit Mani, came to light after he had teamed up with Rahul Gandhi on stage at the Congress's 'Chhatron Ki Goonj' event in Madhya Pradesh's Indore. A clip circulating online, shared from Congress's official X account, shows both individuals sharing a laugh on stage in front of a large audience after they cracked jokes and did mimicry alluding to the prime minister and other BJP leaders. Mani, who goes by the handle 'hunnywhoisfunny' on Instagram, shared a post on Instagram's 'story ' announcing the cancellation of his scheduled shows, citing "unforeseen circumstances." "I regret to inform you that my Noida show has been cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances. I sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding and support," Mani said. Also read: IIT Bombay student death: CCTV footage becomes key evidence as police reconstruct Sahil Wakode's final hours Mani cancels Lucknow and Kanpur events In a separate update on Instagram, he mentioned that his upcoming performances in Lucknow and Kanpur had also been called off, "due to repeated threats from goon activists." This came a day after BJP leaders hit out at Rahul Gandhi for remarks he made about PM Narendra Modi during the 'Chhatron Ki Goonj' event. CR Kesavan, the BJP's national spokesperson, said in a video message that no sensible or respectable person would have been entertained by what he called vulgar, low-grade humour, yet Rahul Gandhi was visibly enjoying himself, laughing openly while seated alongside them on stage. Also read: Heartwarming rescue: Two fishermen rescue Elephant calf being swept away in Teesta river, reunite it with mother | WATCH

A clip circulating online, shared from Congress's official X account, shows both individuals laughing on stage in front of a large audience after they cracked jokes and did mimicry alluding to the prime minister and other BJP leaders.

Comedian who shared stage with Rahul Gandhi cancels shows in Noida, Lucknow and Kanpur

Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Saturday (September 19) attacked the BJP government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying the struggle of students was against a system being run by "six individuals at the top". He named Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat and industrialists Gautam Adani and Mukesh Ambani among the six individuals. Speaking to students at the ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ programme in Indore, Gandhi said the system felt threatened by students because they asked questions. He said students questioned how Amit Shah’s son became the chairman of a cricket association and how two individuals managed to capture the entire business landscape of India.&nbsp;"The system feels threatened by students. Why? Because students ask questions," Gandhi said.He also questioned the functioning of the judiciary and other institutions and asked why the Election Commission was not performing its duties.&nbsp;Gandhi said the system did not want students who questioned its functioning. Instead, he alleged that it wanted "Andhbhakts", an apparent reference to supporters of the BJP.&nbsp;"That is why the system does not want students; it wants 'Andhbhakts'," Gandhi said.&nbsp;He described a student as someone who remains curious and continues to ask questions, while contrasting this with what he called an "andhbhakt".&nbsp;"While a student asks questions and remains curious, an andhbhakt lives in a delusional world of their own. While a student is fearless, an andhbhakt is a coward," he added.<h3>Rahul Gandhi raises paper leak, education issues</h3>Gandhi further targeted what he described as the failure to address paper leaks and problems in schools and colleges. He said an "andhbhakt" would not question why education infrastructure had deteriorated or why examination papers were leaking.&nbsp;"The 'andhbhakt' says development is not needed. Modi ji is an incarnation of Vishnu. But the andhbhakt never asks questions," Gandhi said.&nbsp;He added that students were the ones who raised concerns about schools, colleges, infrastructure and examination paper leaks.&nbsp;"Why are our papers leaking? A student is the one who raises this voice," he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dusu-election-2026-results-abvp-retains-president-post-in-close-battle-nsui-rebel-pulls-off-surprise-victory-1789828184147">DUSU election 2026 results: ABVP retains president post in close battle; NSUI rebel pulls off surprise victory</a><h3>NSUI faces setback in DUSU polls</h3>Gandhi’s ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ campaign was launched after the NEET UG 2026 paper leaks. The Congress subsequently organised several events, public meetings and media programmes as part of its outreach to Gen Z.&nbsp;However, the Congress’s student organisation, the National Student Union of India (NSUI), faced a setback in the Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) elections on Saturday.&nbsp;The BJP-affiliated Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) won three of the four seats, including the president’s post. An NSUI rebel, who had been denied the party ticket, won the vice president’s seat.&nbsp;The DUSU results came as Gandhi continued his student-focused campaign, with issues such as examination transparency, recruitment delays, vacancies and paper leaks featuring prominently in his interaction with students.

Rahul Gandhi, speaking at the ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ programme in Indore, accused the Modi government of being run by “six individuals at the top” and said the system wanted “Andhbhakts” instead of students who ask questions.

Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Saturday (September 19) attacked the BJP government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying the struggle of students was against a system being run by "six individuals at the top". He named Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat and industrialists Gautam Adani and Mukesh Ambani among the six individuals. Speaking to students at the ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ programme in Indore, Gandhi said the system felt threatened by students because they asked questions. He said students questioned how Amit Shah’s son became the chairman of a cricket association and how two individuals managed to capture the entire business landscape of India. "The system feels threatened by students. Why? Because students ask questions," Gandhi said. He also questioned the functioning of the judiciary and other institutions and asked why the Election Commission was not performing its duties. Gandhi said the system did not want students who questioned its functioning. Instead, he alleged that it wanted "Andhbhakts", an apparent reference to supporters of the BJP. "That is why the system does not want students; it wants 'Andhbhakts'," Gandhi said. He described a student as someone who remains curious and continues to ask questions, while contrasting this with what he called an "andhbhakt". "While a student asks questions and remains curious, an andhbhakt lives in a delusional world of their own. While a student is fearless, an andhbhakt is a coward," he added. Rahul Gandhi raises paper leak, education issues Gandhi further targeted what he described as the failure to address paper leaks and problems in schools and colleges. He said an "andhbhakt" would not question why education infrastructure had deteriorated or why examination papers were leaking. "The 'andhbhakt' says development is not needed. Modi ji is an incarnation of Vishnu. But the andhbhakt never asks questions," Gandhi said. He added that students were the ones who raised concerns about schools, colleges, infrastructure and examination paper leaks. "Why are our papers leaking? A student is the one who raises this voice," he said. Also Read: DUSU election 2026 results: ABVP retains president post in close battle; NSUI rebel pulls off surprise victory NSUI faces setback in DUSU polls Gandhi’s ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ campaign was launched after the NEET UG 2026 paper leaks. The Congress subsequently organised several events, public meetings and media programmes as part of its outreach to Gen Z. However, the Congress’s student organisation, the National Student Union of India (NSUI), faced a setback in the Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) elections on Saturday. The BJP-affiliated Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) won three of the four seats, including the president’s post. An NSUI rebel, who had been denied the party ticket, won the vice president’s seat. The DUSU results came as Gandhi continued his student-focused campaign, with issues such as examination transparency, recruitment delays, vacancies and paper leaks featuring prominently in his interaction with students.

Rahul Gandhi, speaking at the ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ programme in Indore, accused the Modi government of being run by “six individuals at the top” and said the system wanted “Andhbhakts” instead of students who ask questions.

‘System run by six individuals’: Rahul Gandhi targets PM Modi, Amit Shah, NSA Doval

Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday (Sept 15) accused the BJP-led central government of giving in to pressure from American payment companies over the reported move to allow charges on some UPI transactions.&nbsp;Gandhi said the government’s claim that customers would not be charged directly does not address the impact on consumers. He argued that allowing a Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on merchant transactions above ₹2,000 could eventually push up prices for buyers.<h2>Rahul Gandhi targets Centre over UPI policy</h2>In a post on X, Gandhi alleged that the government had opened the way for fees to be imposed on UPI payments above the ₹2,000 threshold.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">मोदी सरकार ने चुपचाप UPI पर फ़ीस लगाने का रास्ता खोल दिया है। अब ₹2,000 से ऊपर के merchant UPI लेन-देन पर MDR लगाया जा सकता है। इन ट्रांजैक्शंस की संख्या भले ही सिर्फ़ 5% हो, लेकिन UPI के कुल transaction value का करीब 65% इन्हीं में है। सरकार कहती है कि ग्राहक से कोई फ़ीस नहीं…&mdash; Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://x.com/RahulGandhi/status/2099757892731883671?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"The Modi government has quietly opened the door to imposing fees on UPI. Now, MDR can be levied on merchant UPI transactions above Rs 2,000. Even if these transactions account for just 5% of the volume, they make up nearly 65% of UPI's total transaction value. The government says no fees will be charged to customers. But where will the fees imposed on shopkeepers ultimately come from? Added to prices, straight out of the customer's pocket," he said.&nbsp;Gandhi also claimed that American payment companies have previously opposed India’s zero MDR policy. He alleged that the government was now moving towards changing the policy in the same direction.&nbsp;"Just like with the US Trade Deal, Compromised PM Modi is once again surrendering to American pressure," he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-dismisses-pakistan-bounty-on-masood-azhar-as-phony-1789473976877">India dismisses Pakistan bounty on Masood Azhar as 'phony'</a><h2>Finance Ministry notification</h2>Gandhi's remarks came after the Finance Ministry issued a notification stating that UPI transactions up to ₹2,000 cannot attract any direct or indirect charge from banks or system providers.&nbsp;The provision effectively keeps around 96 per cent of UPI transactions by volume within the zero-charge threshold, according to the notification.&nbsp;Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also criticised the reported move earlier on Tuesday. He accused the government of looking for new ways to increase the financial burden on people instead of providing relief amid inflation.&nbsp;"The Modi government's loot has now reached UPI. 'No fees on UPI' has been changed to 'no fees on UPI transactions up to Rs 2,000'. Sky-high inflation has already emptied the common man's pocket. Wholesale inflation is near 10%, and the BJP government has planned to impose a 'Digital Payments Tax' on the public, aiming to destroy whatever little savings they have left," Kharge said.

Rahul Gandhi has accused the Modi government of giving in to US pressure over UPI charges, arguing that merchant fees on transactions above ₹2,000 could ultimately increase costs for consumers.

Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday (Sept 15) accused the BJP-led central government of giving in to pressure from American payment companies over the reported move to allow charges on some UPI transactions. Gandhi said the government’s claim that customers would not be charged directly does not address the impact on consumers. He argued that allowing a Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on merchant transactions above ₹2,000 could eventually push up prices for buyers. Rahul Gandhi targets Centre over UPI policy In a post on X, Gandhi alleged that the government had opened the way for fees to be imposed on UPI payments above the ₹2,000 threshold.

Rahul Gandhi has accused the Modi government of giving in to US pressure over UPI charges, arguing that merchant fees on transactions above ₹2,000 could ultimately increase costs for consumers.

‘Surrendering to American pressure’: Rahul Gandhi targets PM Modi govt over UPI charges

A major political row has erupted in India over the all-vegetarian menu served to world leaders at the BRICS Summit gala dinner in New Delhi. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi sparked a debate by claiming that "80% of Indians are non-vegetarian" and questioning why India's diverse culinary culture was excluded. Congress leaders accused the government of imposing dietary choices on foreign dignitaries, while Union Minister Kiren Rijiju hit back, condemning the Opposition for politicizing hospitality served to international guests. Watch for full details and reactions.


BRICS summit 2026: Rahul Gandhi takes a dig at dinner menu

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi lashed out at the Narendra Modi-led central government after the vegetarian menu was served at the BRICS Summit gala dinner in New Delhi on Saturday (September 12), maintaining that “80 per cent of Indians are non-vegetarian”. Rahul Gandhi's statement has triggered a political row, prompting Kiren Rijiju to hit back at the Congress for “making politics even on the food menu”. “For the record: 80% of Indians are non-vegetarian. Indian non-vegetarian food is delicious. As are my sister's chole bhature,” Rahul Gandhi said in a post on X on Sunday, along with sharing a picture of the popular North Indian dish.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">For the record: 80% of Indians are non-vegetarian. Indian non-vegetarian food is delicious. As are my sister&#39;s chole bhature. <a href="https://t.co/8f6ziKjLan">pic.twitter.com/8f6ziKjLan</a>&mdash; Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://x.com/RahulGandhi/status/2099050899360641454?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Voicing support for Rahul Gandhi, Pawan Khera argued that India’s culinary diversity included some of the finest non-vegetarian dishes in the world and asked why the government opted not to feature them. “The BJP’s habit of imposing its dietary preferences on fellow Indians is already deeply problematic. Now, they have taken it a step further by imposing their own choices on dignitaries from across the world,” he said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-and-china-s-xi-offered-to-help-resolve-russia-ukraine-war-kremlin-1789286638039">PM Modi and China's Xi offered to help resolve Russia-Ukraine war: Kremlin</a><h3>Kiren Rijiju hits out at Congress</h3>Without naming anyone specifically, Kiren Rijiju aimed at the Congress, accusing the party of turning the food served to BRICS leaders into a political controversy. “I can't believe that the Congress party is making politics even on the food menu served to the leaders of BRICS nations. Our guests relished Indian vegetarian cuisine, which is rich in flavour and nutritional variety with diverse regional traditions,” Rijiju said. Rahul's comments followed a day after a lavish vegetarian menu was presented at a gala dinner held during the BRICS Summit, showcasing dishes representing various regional cuisines from across the country.<h3>What was served at the gala dinner?</h3>The meal opened with starters such as 'Khandvi mille', a steamed gram-flour roll tempered with mustard seeds, coconut and curry leaves, alongside 'Khumb galouti', pan-grilled mushroom kebabs paired with mint pearls. For the main course, guests were served 'Paneer Lababdar', 'Gucchi Marmik', made using Himalayan morel mushrooms and tender asparagus, and 'Carrot Bean Poriyal'. Rounding out the spread were 'Thakkali Belle Saaru', a light lentil broth, along with millet pulao, beetroot raita and a variety of Indian breads. To finish, VVIP guests were treated to 'Old Delhi fruit cream with jalebi' and 'Shahtoot phirni' for dessert. The gala dinner was complemented by a cultural performance featuring an ensemble of over 100 artistes, drawn primarily from India as well as other BRICS member nations.

Voicing support for Rahul Gandhi, Pawan Khera argued that India’s culinary diversity included some of the finest non-vegetarian dishes in the world and asked why the government opted not to feature them.

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi lashed out at the Narendra Modi-led central government after the vegetarian menu was served at the BRICS Summit gala dinner in New Delhi on Saturday (September 12), maintaining that “80 per cent of Indians are non-vegetarian”. Rahul Gandhi's statement has triggered a political row, prompting Kiren Rijiju to hit back at the Congress for “making politics even on the food menu”. “For the record: 80% of Indians are non-vegetarian. Indian non-vegetarian food is delicious. As are my sister's chole bhature,” Rahul Gandhi said in a post on X on Sunday, along with sharing a picture of the popular North Indian dish.

Voicing support for Rahul Gandhi, Pawan Khera argued that India’s culinary diversity included some of the finest non-vegetarian dishes in the world and asked why the government opted not to feature them.

'80% of Indians are non-vegetarian': Rahul Gandhi slams BRICS Summit dinner menu, BJP calls it 'politics on food menu'

Chief Minister Vijay's TVK-led coalition government in Tamil Nadu is just entering its fourth month at the helm of the state's affairs. Well within what is regarded as the six-month honeymoon period of a new Government, cracks are already appearing between the TVK and its major ally Congress. Despite the warm personal rapport and bonhomie seen between Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Chief Minister Vijay during the latter’s swearing-in ceremony, TVK Ministers and MLAs have been relentlessly projecting CM Vijay as a possible Prime Ministerial candidate for the 2029 Lok Sabha polls. If the recent remarks of Congress MLA and Tamil Nadu Tourism Minister Rajesh Kumar are any indication, it is clear that the Congress is extremely unhappy over attempts by a section of the TVK to project Vijay as a possible PM candidate. That too, while being in alliance with the Congress which has been pitching for India's Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi as the Prime Ministerial face.&nbsp;&nbsp;Speaking at a Congress party event in his native district Kanyakumari, Tourism Minister and Congress MLA Rajesh Kumar recently made Congress' stance amply clear. "In the 2029 Lok Sabha polls, our leader Rahul Gandhi will be elected as the Prime Minister... If TVK does not accept this, the two Congress Ministers in Tamil Nadu will not continue in these roles. Congress party means everything to us. Without Congress party, I am nothing... the Congress movement is everything. If Congress party wants us to resign tomorrow, we will resign the next moment. Every party can have their own stance and policies. For every one of us in the Congress party, Rahul Gandhi is our face."&nbsp;&nbsp;Minister Rajesh Kumar's comments and its timing would give the impression that the differences between TVK and Congress are primarily over who would be the Prime Ministerial face. However, there is more to it than meets the eye. Though the TVK-led coalition has been in power for less than four months, a lot of differences and tensions have been simmering under the surface, far beneath the public glare. It would be fair to assume that the comments by Minister Rajesh Kumar carried the weight of all those unheard and unaddressed concerns that the Congress has been having with the TVK.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>A coalition that does not have a convenor and grievance redressal mechanism&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;While the TVK Government celebrated its 100 days in power and is now stepping into its fourth month, there has been minimal progress regarding the structure of the overall TVK-led alliance, which comprises the Congress (five MLAs), VCK (two MLAs), IIUML (two MLAs) and the outside support of the Left parties (four MLAs). In all these months, Chief Minister Vijay chaired only a single meeting involving allied parties.&nbsp;&nbsp;Even now, a convenor is yet to be appointed to address the differing opinions that are emerging among coalition partners. At a more basic level, this alliance remains without a formal name. It is being known only as the TVK-led coalition.&nbsp;&nbsp;So far, there have been no discussions regarding a common minimum programme to reflect the electoral promises of the coalition partners. As a result, the alliance may appear directionless. This situation has led to feelings of dissatisfaction among the Congress party members, and party cadre have started to express their grievances with this new government.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Congress was given 2 Ministers and 1 MP. Is that it?&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;For the support provided by the five MLAs, TVK granted two Ministerial berths and a Rajya Sabha MP seat to the Congress. However, questions remain within the Congress on whether the party has gotten its due share in several other politically appointed roles within Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Tamil Nadu Government has completed the appointments of government pleaders and public prosecutors, chairpersons for various boards across government departments, with opportunities predominantly being extended to members of Vijay's TVK, while those from allied parties are being kept at bay.&nbsp;&nbsp;It is noteworthy that there has been a lack of adequate negotiations or consultations between the TVK and its coalition partners in this regard. Many senior and junior workers of the Congress who had been awaiting fair opportunities within the legal system have expressed significant disappointment regarding the outcomes of this process. The growing discontent among the Congress party members is becoming increasingly apparent.&nbsp;&nbsp;Several inquiries regarding the fairness of recent decisions are being directed towards the senior leadership of the Tamil Nadu Congress. When a potential candidate for a significant position approached the Congress ministers or the state leadership, they were unable to provide satisfactory responses.&nbsp;&nbsp;Furthermore, Parliamentarian Praveen Charavarthy, who was once considered an adroit negotiator with the TVK, now appears to lack a voice in these discussions. There is currently a lack of clarity regarding the reasons for the delay in appointing a convenor for the alliance and the rationale behind the approach of the TVK in filling government positions with only their own people.&nbsp;&nbsp;Is it to be perceived that the TVK leadership has conveyed to the Congress High Command in Delhi, as well as to the leadership of the other coalition parties, that their due share in power has already been allocated?&nbsp;&nbsp;How to seal the cracks? The way ahead for the TVK-led coalition...&nbsp;&nbsp;Chief Minister Joseph Vijay's electoral victory represents a significant milestone in the political landscape of Tamil Nadu. This achievement is noteworthy as it has contributed to liberating the Congress Party and other political entities from the popular perception among Dravidian parties that coalition governments are ill-suited for the state.&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, it is essential to recognize the potential risks associated with presenting the TVK as the preeminent force within the coalition, while characterizing allies (Congress, VCK, IUML) as mere numerical supporters. This imbalance in representation could jeopardize the integrity of the significant alliance-related commitments outlined by Chief Minister Vijay during his election campaigns.&nbsp;&nbsp;It is crucial to confront and address these issues and differences promptly. Tackling these issues will facilitate a more equitable recognition of all parties as valuable contributors to the coalition's objectives, particularly in anticipation of the forthcoming local body elections and the 2029 parliamentary elections.&nbsp;&nbsp;Therefore, the adoption of the longstanding Kerala model of coalition governance, along with the establishment of a structured alliance framework, is essential and should be prioritized. It is necessary to establish a new name for the alliance, appoint conveners at the state, district, and block levels, facilitate an equitable allocation of power, and advance discussions and consultations among all coalition partners in preparation for the local body elections.&nbsp;&nbsp;These actions are critical for promoting unity in the face of challenges posed by the Dravidian parties, within the state assembly and in the broader context. This strategy is not merely a choice; it is a vital commitment for coalition parties, particularly the Congress party in Tamil Nadu, to embrace the aspirations of their supporters and to celebrate the shared enthusiasm inspired by the leadership of the TVK.&nbsp;(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

The Congress is extremely unhappy over attempts by a section of the TVK to project Vijay as a possible PM candidate. That too, while being in alliance with the Congress, which has been pitching for India's Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi as the Prime Ministerial face. 

Chief Minister Vijay's TVK-led coalition government in Tamil Nadu is just entering its fourth month at the helm of the state's affairs. Well within what is regarded as the six-month honeymoon period of a new Government, cracks are already appearing between the TVK and its major ally Congress. Despite the warm personal rapport and bonhomie seen between Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Chief Minister Vijay during the latter’s swearing-in ceremony, TVK Ministers and MLAs have been relentlessly projecting CM Vijay as a possible Prime Ministerial candidate for the 2029 Lok Sabha polls. If the recent remarks of Congress MLA and Tamil Nadu Tourism Minister Rajesh Kumar are any indication, it is clear that the Congress is extremely unhappy over attempts by a section of the TVK to project Vijay as a possible PM candidate. That too, while being in alliance with the Congress which has been pitching for India's Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi as the Prime Ministerial face. Speaking at a Congress party event in his native district Kanyakumari, Tourism Minister and Congress MLA Rajesh Kumar recently made Congress' stance amply clear. "In the 2029 Lok Sabha polls, our leader Rahul Gandhi will be elected as the Prime Minister... If TVK does not accept this, the two Congress Ministers in Tamil Nadu will not continue in these roles. Congress party means everything to us. Without Congress party, I am nothing... the Congress movement is everything. If Congress party wants us to resign tomorrow, we will resign the next moment. Every party can have their own stance and policies. For every one of us in the Congress party, Rahul Gandhi is our face." Minister Rajesh Kumar's comments and its timing would give the impression that the differences between TVK and Congress are primarily over who would be the Prime Ministerial face. However, there is more to it than meets the eye. Though the TVK-led coalition has been in power for less than four months, a lot of differences and tensions have been simmering under the surface, far beneath the public glare. It would be fair to assume that the comments by Minister Rajesh Kumar carried the weight of all those unheard and unaddressed concerns that the Congress has been having with the TVK. A coalition that does not have a convenor and grievance redressal mechanism While the TVK Government celebrated its 100 days in power and is now stepping into its fourth month, there has been minimal progress regarding the structure of the overall TVK-led alliance, which comprises the Congress (five MLAs), VCK (two MLAs), IIUML (two MLAs) and the outside support of the Left parties (four MLAs). In all these months, Chief Minister Vijay chaired only a single meeting involving allied parties. Even now, a convenor is yet to be appointed to address the differing opinions that are emerging among coalition partners. At a more basic level, this alliance remains without a formal name. It is being known only as the TVK-led coalition. So far, there have been no discussions regarding a common minimum programme to reflect the electoral promises of the coalition partners. As a result, the alliance may appear directionless. This situation has led to feelings of dissatisfaction among the Congress party members, and party cadre have started to express their grievances with this new government. Congress was given 2 Ministers and 1 MP. Is that it? For the support provided by the five MLAs, TVK granted two Ministerial berths and a Rajya Sabha MP seat to the Congress. However, questions remain within the Congress on whether the party has gotten its due share in several other politically appointed roles within Tamil Nadu. The Tamil Nadu Government has completed the appointments of government pleaders and public prosecutors, chairpersons for various boards across government departments, with opportunities predominantly being extended to members of Vijay's TVK, while those from allied parties are being kept at bay. It is noteworthy that there has been a lack of adequate negotiations or consultations between the TVK and its coalition partners in this regard. Many senior and junior workers of the Congress who had been awaiting fair opportunities within the legal system have expressed significant disappointment regarding the outcomes of this process. The growing discontent among the Congress party members is becoming increasingly apparent. Several inquiries regarding the fairness of recent decisions are being directed towards the senior leadership of the Tamil Nadu Congress. When a potential candidate for a significant position approached the Congress ministers or the state leadership, they were unable to provide satisfactory responses. Furthermore, Parliamentarian Praveen Charavarthy, who was once considered an adroit negotiator with the TVK, now appears to lack a voice in these discussions. There is currently a lack of clarity regarding the reasons for the delay in appointing a convenor for the alliance and the rationale behind the approach of the TVK in filling government positions with only their own people. Is it to be perceived that the TVK leadership has conveyed to the Congress High Command in Delhi, as well as to the leadership of the other coalition parties, that their due share in power has already been allocated? How to seal the cracks? The way ahead for the TVK-led coalition... Chief Minister Joseph Vijay's electoral victory represents a significant milestone in the political landscape of Tamil Nadu. This achievement is noteworthy as it has contributed to liberating the Congress Party and other political entities from the popular perception among Dravidian parties that coalition governments are ill-suited for the state. Meanwhile, it is essential to recognize the potential risks associated with presenting the TVK as the preeminent force within the coalition, while characterizing allies (Congress, VCK, IUML) as mere numerical supporters. This imbalance in representation could jeopardize the integrity of the significant alliance-related commitments outlined by Chief Minister Vijay during his election campaigns. It is crucial to confront and address these issues and differences promptly. Tackling these issues will facilitate a more equitable recognition of all parties as valuable contributors to the coalition's objectives, particularly in anticipation of the forthcoming local body elections and the 2029 parliamentary elections. Therefore, the adoption of the longstanding Kerala model of coalition governance, along with the establishment of a structured alliance framework, is essential and should be prioritized. It is necessary to establish a new name for the alliance, appoint conveners at the state, district, and block levels, facilitate an equitable allocation of power, and advance discussions and consultations among all coalition partners in preparation for the local body elections. These actions are critical for promoting unity in the face of challenges posed by the Dravidian parties, within the state assembly and in the broader context. This strategy is not merely a choice; it is a vital commitment for coalition parties, particularly the Congress party in Tamil Nadu, to embrace the aspirations of their supporters and to celebrate the shared enthusiasm inspired by the leadership of the TVK. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

The Congress is extremely unhappy over attempts by a section of the TVK to project Vijay as a possible PM candidate. That too, while being in alliance with the Congress, which has been pitching for India's Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi as the Prime Ministerial face.&nbsp;

Why are cracks appearing in the TVK-Congress alliance in Tamil Nadu?

Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Saturday demanded the immediate registration of an FIR under the SC/ST Act against those allegedly involved in a shuddhikaran or purification ritual in Uttarakhand after Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge's visit.&nbsp;Addressing a press conference in Delhi, Gandhi said the incident reflected the BJP and RSS mindset towards Dalits. He alleged that the two organisations did not want Dalits to progress, live with dignity or achieve success.&nbsp;"We are demanding justice for the Congress president. Give the Congress president justice in Uttarakhand. It is the duty of the central and state governments to ensure that Kharge gets justice," he said.&nbsp;Gandhi accused those involved in the ritual of practising untouchability and said the act suggested that Dalits were being treated as impure.&nbsp;"The BJP people practice untouchability. When they do shuddhikaran, they say that Dalits cannot touch as they are impure," Gandhi said.&nbsp;He also accused Uttarakhand BJP chief Mahendra Bhatt of defending the purification ritual. Gandhi said around 20 days had passed since the alleged incident, but no action had been taken.&nbsp;"We demand that an FIR be lodged against those who have done this. PM Modi states that he belongs to every caste and is the prime minister of the country, but his party chief of Uttarakhand defends shuddhikaran," Gandhi said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-iran-president-masoud-pezeshkian-admit-that-us-sanctions-affecting-tehran-s-economy-here-s-what-he-said-1788003944885">Did Iran President Masoud Pezeshkian admit that US sanctions affecting Tehran's economy? Here's what he said</a>&nbsp;Gandhi reiterated that the ritual violated the SC/ST Act and demanded immediate action against those allegedly responsible.&nbsp;"This act violates the SC/ST Act. Performing a 'purification' ritual is a crime. Yet, no action has been taken. Therefore, we demand that an FIR be registered immediately against those who carried out this purification ritual in Uttarakhand," Gandhi said.&nbsp;The Congress leader also questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi's claim of representing people from every caste, pointing to the Uttarakhand BJP leadership's defence of the purification ritual."The Prime Minister claims to belong to every caste and to be the Prime Minister of all of India. Yet, the state chief of his party states that the purification was justified," Gandhi said.&nbsp;He called on the Prime Minister to direct authorities to register an FIR under the SC/ST Act against those allegedly involved in the incident.&nbsp;"We want the Prime Minister to immediately order the registration of an FIR against these individuals under the SC/ST Act. It is the duty of both the State Government and the Central Government to ensure that Kharge ji receives justice in Uttarakhand," he said.&nbsp;Earlier, Kharge raised the issue in the Rajya Sabha this month. He demanded that cases be registered under the law against untouchability against those allegedly involved and called for their arrest.&nbsp;Leader of the House and Union minister J P Nadda had said the BJP did not support such activities and that the incident would be investigated.

Rahul Gandhi demanded an immediate FIR under the SC/ST Act over the alleged purification ritual at the venue of Mallikarjun Kharge’s rally in Haldwani, Uttarakhand, and urged PM Modi to ensure justice.

Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Saturday demanded the immediate registration of an FIR under the SC/ST Act against those allegedly involved in a shuddhikaran or purification ritual in Uttarakhand after Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge's visit. Addressing a press conference in Delhi, Gandhi said the incident reflected the BJP and RSS mindset towards Dalits. He alleged that the two organisations did not want Dalits to progress, live with dignity or achieve success. "We are demanding justice for the Congress president. Give the Congress president justice in Uttarakhand. It is the duty of the central and state governments to ensure that Kharge gets justice," he said. Gandhi accused those involved in the ritual of practising untouchability and said the act suggested that Dalits were being treated as impure. "The BJP people practice untouchability. When they do shuddhikaran, they say that Dalits cannot touch as they are impure," Gandhi said. He also accused Uttarakhand BJP chief Mahendra Bhatt of defending the purification ritual. Gandhi said around 20 days had passed since the alleged incident, but no action had been taken. "We demand that an FIR be lodged against those who have done this. PM Modi states that he belongs to every caste and is the prime minister of the country, but his party chief of Uttarakhand defends shuddhikaran," Gandhi said. Also Read: Did Iran President Masoud Pezeshkian admit that US sanctions affecting Tehran's economy? Here's what he said Gandhi reiterated that the ritual violated the SC/ST Act and demanded immediate action against those allegedly responsible. "This act violates the SC/ST Act. Performing a 'purification' ritual is a crime. Yet, no action has been taken. Therefore, we demand that an FIR be registered immediately against those who carried out this purification ritual in Uttarakhand," Gandhi said. The Congress leader also questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi's claim of representing people from every caste, pointing to the Uttarakhand BJP leadership's defence of the purification ritual. "The Prime Minister claims to belong to every caste and to be the Prime Minister of all of India. Yet, the state chief of his party states that the purification was justified," Gandhi said. He called on the Prime Minister to direct authorities to register an FIR under the SC/ST Act against those allegedly involved in the incident. "We want the Prime Minister to immediately order the registration of an FIR against these individuals under the SC/ST Act. It is the duty of both the State Government and the Central Government to ensure that Kharge ji receives justice in Uttarakhand," he said. Earlier, Kharge raised the issue in the Rajya Sabha this month. He demanded that cases be registered under the law against untouchability against those allegedly involved and called for their arrest. Leader of the House and Union minister J P Nadda had said the BJP did not support such activities and that the incident would be investigated.

Rahul Gandhi demanded an immediate FIR under the SC/ST Act over the alleged purification ritual at the venue of Mallikarjun Kharge’s rally in Haldwani, Uttarakhand, and urged PM Modi to ensure justice.

‘PM Modi must order FIR’: Rahul Gandhi demands SC/ST Act case over Haldwani purification row

The political rivalry between the BJP and Congress has often revolved around which party can claim the upper hand. But lately, a lighter version of that competition appears to have extended to the fitness and adventurous activities of their leaders. The latest episode came after Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju shared videos of himself taking a plunge into the fast-flowing waters of Arunachal Pradesh. Taking a playful swipe at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Rijiju suggested that Gandhi might need some training before attempting such an activity. "Mein yahan ka khiladi hun (I am the player here)," Rijiju said in a post on X.&nbsp;The exchange is the latest in a series of light-hearted interactions between the two political rivals over fitness and physical activities. Their friendly banter has included a conversation in Parliament last year and a jiu-jitsu challenge from Gandhi earlier this year. "Many people are saying that I'm also doing like Rahul Gandhi. Rahul ji may take training for such activities but it's normal routine in my life. I don't take training as these are child's play for me since childhood. My life is full of adventurous (adventures)," Rijiju wrote, posting a video of himself swimming in a river in Arunachal Pradesh.&nbsp;"Never go to deep water if you do not know swimming. Many people have drowned in the river. The rivers in Arunachal Pradesh are huge and very deep," he wrote. Rijiju later shared another video explaining why swimming in Arunachal Pradesh's turbulent rivers is significantly different from swimming in a pool or relatively calm water. "Some people might think swimming in gushing rivers of Arunachal Pradesh is like swimming in pools or rivers like Yamuna. In raging rivers, our head should be up, not down &amp; body should be more upright, not straight as we keep in swimming competition. Mein yahan ka khiladi hun," he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-cause-for-panic-icmr-says-no-new-h1n1-strain-detected-urges-caution-for-high-risk-groups-1787489610563">‘No cause for panic’: ICMR says no new H1N1 strain detected, urges caution for high-risk groups</a><h2>Rahul Gandhi and Rijiju's fitness conversations</h2>In December last year, Rijiju shared a video on Instagram showing a conversation with Gandhi in Parliament. "Not talking politics, only fitness. I hope he will promote #FitIndiaMovement," the minister had said. According to an ANI report, Gandhi asked Rijiju about his exercise routine during the conversation and invited him to work out together. Their discussion also touched on martial arts, with Gandhi suggesting that the two could train together.<h2>How Rahul Gandhi stays fit at 56</h2>Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi has frequently spoken about his interest in fitness and physical activities. Recently, he discussed his fitness routine during an Instagram Ask Me Anything session, where he answered questions from students and Gen Z users about his personal life and interests. “Students, Gen Z, ask me anything and I will reply to as many questions,” Gandhi wrote while inviting questions from his followers.&nbsp;When a follower asked, “Hey Rahul, what’s your fitness routine?”, Gandhi said that there is no single workout regimen that guarantees fitness. Instead, he stressed the importance of consistency. “The thing about fitness that is important is not really the routine you follow. It is being persistent, doing it continuously and allowing it to compound,” he said.&nbsp;Gandhi said his routine combines several forms of physical activity. “I like doing a little bit of martial arts, swimming and running,” he said. He also revealed that yoga has recently become an important part of his routine. Rather than exercising only when he has free time, Gandhi said he makes fitness a priority even amid a busy schedule.

Kiren Rijiju takes a playful swipe at Rahul Gandhi over river swimming in Arunachal Pradesh as their light-hearted fitness rivalry continues

The political rivalry between the BJP and Congress has often revolved around which party can claim the upper hand. But lately, a lighter version of that competition appears to have extended to the fitness and adventurous activities of their leaders. The latest episode came after Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju shared videos of himself taking a plunge into the fast-flowing waters of Arunachal Pradesh. Taking a playful swipe at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Rijiju suggested that Gandhi might need some training before attempting such an activity. "Mein yahan ka khiladi hun (I am the player here)," Rijiju said in a post on X. The exchange is the latest in a series of light-hearted interactions between the two political rivals over fitness and physical activities. Their friendly banter has included a conversation in Parliament last year and a jiu-jitsu challenge from Gandhi earlier this year. "Many people are saying that I'm also doing like Rahul Gandhi. Rahul ji may take training for such activities but it's normal routine in my life. I don't take training as these are child's play for me since childhood. My life is full of adventurous (adventures)," Rijiju wrote, posting a video of himself swimming in a river in Arunachal Pradesh. "Never go to deep water if you do not know swimming. Many people have drowned in the river. The rivers in Arunachal Pradesh are huge and very deep," he wrote. Rijiju later shared another video explaining why swimming in Arunachal Pradesh's turbulent rivers is significantly different from swimming in a pool or relatively calm water. "Some people might think swimming in gushing rivers of Arunachal Pradesh is like swimming in pools or rivers like Yamuna. In raging rivers, our head should be up, not down & body should be more upright, not straight as we keep in swimming competition. Mein yahan ka khiladi hun," he said. Also Read: ‘No cause for panic’: ICMR says no new H1N1 strain detected, urges caution for high-risk groups Rahul Gandhi and Rijiju's fitness conversations In December last year, Rijiju shared a video on Instagram showing a conversation with Gandhi in Parliament. "Not talking politics, only fitness. I hope he will promote #FitIndiaMovement," the minister had said. According to an ANI report, Gandhi asked Rijiju about his exercise routine during the conversation and invited him to work out together. Their discussion also touched on martial arts, with Gandhi suggesting that the two could train together. How Rahul Gandhi stays fit at 56 Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi has frequently spoken about his interest in fitness and physical activities. Recently, he discussed his fitness routine during an Instagram Ask Me Anything session, where he answered questions from students and Gen Z users about his personal life and interests. “Students, Gen Z, ask me anything and I will reply to as many questions,” Gandhi wrote while inviting questions from his followers. When a follower asked, “Hey Rahul, what’s your fitness routine?”, Gandhi said that there is no single workout regimen that guarantees fitness. Instead, he stressed the importance of consistency. “The thing about fitness that is important is not really the routine you follow. It is being persistent, doing it continuously and allowing it to compound,” he said. Gandhi said his routine combines several forms of physical activity. “I like doing a little bit of martial arts, swimming and running,” he said. He also revealed that yoga has recently become an important part of his routine. Rather than exercising only when he has free time, Gandhi said he makes fitness a priority even amid a busy schedule.

Kiren Rijiju takes a playful dig at Rahul Gandhi over river swimming, highlighting their light-hearted fitness rivalry and adventurous routines

Kiren Rijiju takes dig at Rahul Gandhi over river swimming, says ‘Mein yahan ka khiladi hun’

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Saturday (Aug 22) highlighted several issues concerning women’s safety, and lashed out at BJP and RSS while calling out their “Manusmriti mindset." He was addressing the Pune leg of the “Chhatron Ki Goonj” campaign that he said was dedicated to “daughters of the nation.” Interacting with students, Gandhi slammed the Manusmriti’s idea that a woman should remain under the authority of male relatives at every stage of her life. He also targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi and played a video of Modi referring to abusive language used by girls during the agitation at Jantar Mantar over paper leaks and calling it a “cultural shock."&nbsp;The Congress leader said that both boys and girls had used abusive language at Jantar Mantar, but the Prime Minister said he felt a cultural shock because girls used such a language. “If boys abuse, there is no problem and it is allowed, but if a girl abuses, it is a cultural shock,” the Congress leader commented. He also said that women belonged to themselves and not to their fathers, husbands or sons, and urged them to "be loud, be proud." He also said, "Patriarchy suppresses you, scares you, threatens you, controls you. Together we have to finish this patriarchy -- smash the patriarchy! And my message to you, simple message: Be loud, be proud, and fight for your space in society.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-s-police-station-dharna-political-theatre-but-a-serious-question-remains-1787328361278">Rahul Gandhi’s police station dharna: Political theatre, but a serious question remains</a>&nbsp;He also referred to an old statement by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat that rape happens in “India” and not in “Bharat”, and former Haryana chief minister M L Khattar’s alleged comment that 80 per cent of rapes happen because of women. “So this is a mindset, and this fight is against this mindset,” Gandhi said. “What is the mindset? That a girl has a place, she should be locked in a cage, she should be controlled, she should not work, and boys should get full freedom... if they want to abuse they can abuse, if they want to work they can work... We do not want such Hindustan,” he added. Earlier, referring to the Manusmriti, Gandhi quoted a verse from the ancient text which says a woman must obey her father in her childhood, in youth she belongs to her husband, and when he is dead, she belongs to her sons. “These words are a shame. These words should not have been spoken,” the Congress leader said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/papa-looking-down-proudly-rahul-gandhi-pens-emotional-note-to-sonia-ahead-of-memoir-release-1787222032159">'Papa looking down proudly': Rahul Gandhi pens emotional note to Sonia ahead of memoir release</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260823/image-1787472407294.png"></figure><h2>Is Congress recalibrating its women voter strategy?</h2>Congress is recalibrating its women-voter strategy by moving beyond welfare-centric messaging towards identity, autonomy, safety and political agency. His women-focused ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ event specifically targeted Gen Z women, linking their concerns over education and paper leaks with broader issues of patriarchy and social control. The shift is significant because women have increasingly become a decisive electoral constituency in India, with BJP focussing on the women voters since the campaign of Prime Minister Narendra Modi began for 2014 General Elections. Congress appears to be trying to build a direct emotional and political connect with younger women, specially after the Gen Z student protest in India.&nbsp;<h3>What is changing?</h3>Gandhi’s message that women “belong to themselves” frames women as citizens with individual agency rather than dependents. The focus on patriarchy, safety, economic opportunity and social control broadens the Congress pitch beyond traditional welfare politics. The Pune event was explicitly designed around young women, connecting issues such as exam leaks, career uncertainty and family pressure with gender inequality. Gandhi’s attack on the “Manusmriti mindset” and his criticism of Narendra Modi’s remarks about girls using abusive language are attempts to make gender equality a political fault line. While BJP is also focussing on Gen Z outreach, Rahul Gandhi's focus on Gen Z has also increased even as he did not made an appearance at the Jantar Mantar protest by Cockroach Janta Party (CJP).

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, addressing the Chhatron Ki Goonj campaign in Pune, criticised the Manusmriti mindset and patriarchy, saying women belong to themselves. He urged women to assert their rights and highlighted physical, economic and opportunity-based violence against women.

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Saturday (Aug 22) highlighted several issues concerning women’s safety, and lashed out at BJP and RSS while calling out their “Manusmriti mindset." He was addressing the Pune leg of the “Chhatron Ki Goonj” campaign that he said was dedicated to “daughters of the nation.” Interacting with students, Gandhi slammed the Manusmriti’s idea that a woman should remain under the authority of male relatives at every stage of her life. He also targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi and played a video of Modi referring to abusive language used by girls during the agitation at Jantar Mantar over paper leaks and calling it a “cultural shock." The Congress leader said that both boys and girls had used abusive language at Jantar Mantar, but the Prime Minister said he felt a cultural shock because girls used such a language. “If boys abuse, there is no problem and it is allowed, but if a girl abuses, it is a cultural shock,” the Congress leader commented. He also said that women belonged to themselves and not to their fathers, husbands or sons, and urged them to "be loud, be proud." He also said, "Patriarchy suppresses you, scares you, threatens you, controls you. Together we have to finish this patriarchy -- smash the patriarchy! And my message to you, simple message: Be loud, be proud, and fight for your space in society.” Also Read: Rahul Gandhi’s police station dharna: Political theatre, but a serious question remains He also referred to an old statement by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat that rape happens in “India” and not in “Bharat”, and former Haryana chief minister M L Khattar’s alleged comment that 80 per cent of rapes happen because of women. “So this is a mindset, and this fight is against this mindset,” Gandhi said. “What is the mindset? That a girl has a place, she should be locked in a cage, she should be controlled, she should not work, and boys should get full freedom... if they want to abuse they can abuse, if they want to work they can work... We do not want such Hindustan,” he added. Earlier, referring to the Manusmriti, Gandhi quoted a verse from the ancient text which says a woman must obey her father in her childhood, in youth she belongs to her husband, and when he is dead, she belongs to her sons. “These words are a shame. These words should not have been spoken,” the Congress leader said. Also Read: 'Papa looking down proudly': Rahul Gandhi pens emotional note to Sonia ahead of memoir release Is Congress recalibrating its women voter strategy? Congress is recalibrating its women-voter strategy by moving beyond welfare-centric messaging towards identity, autonomy, safety and political agency. His women-focused ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ event specifically targeted Gen Z women, linking their concerns over education and paper leaks with broader issues of patriarchy and social control. The shift is significant because women have increasingly become a decisive electoral constituency in India, with BJP focussing on the women voters since the campaign of Prime Minister Narendra Modi began for 2014 General Elections. Congress appears to be trying to build a direct emotional and political connect with younger women, specially after the Gen Z student protest in India. What is changing? Gandhi’s message that women “belong to themselves” frames women as citizens with individual agency rather than dependents. The focus on patriarchy, safety, economic opportunity and social control broadens the Congress pitch beyond traditional welfare politics. The Pune event was explicitly designed around young women, connecting issues such as exam leaks, career uncertainty and family pressure with gender inequality. Gandhi’s attack on the “Manusmriti mindset” and his criticism of Narendra Modi’s remarks about girls using abusive language are attempts to make gender equality a political fault line. While BJP is also focussing on Gen Z outreach, Rahul Gandhi's focus on Gen Z has also increased even as he did not made an appearance at the Jantar Mantar protest by Cockroach Janta Party (CJP).

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, addressing the Chhatron Ki Goonj campaign in Pune, criticised the Manusmriti mindset and patriarchy, saying women belong to themselves. He urged women to assert their rights and highlighted physical, economic and opportunity-based violence against women.

Rahul Gandhi's 'smash patriarchy' message to women -- Is Congress recalibrating its women voter strategy?

Welcome to WION. Here are the top global and India headlines making news.

U.S. President Donald Trump shares images of the proposed White House ballroom following a Supreme Court-related development. Germany’s foreign minister sharply criticizes Vladimir Putin over the war in Ukraine and pledges further support for Kyiv.

Meanwhile, Israel pushes back against U.S. criticism of its strikes on Syrian military sites, while Iran announces further upgrades to its ballistic and cruise missile programs.

In India, Rahul Gandhi’s youth event gets underway in Pune, with the Congress leader engaging with students and discussing issues facing young Indians.

Elsewhere, the IMF stalls Bangladesh funding amid concerns over delayed reforms, firefighters continue battling wildfires in Spain’s Valencia region, and a Chinese humanoid robot reportedly posts an impressive 100-metre trial time.

Watch the full bulletin for the latest world news, India news, geopolitics, Ukraine war, Iran, Israel, Bangladesh, Trump and technology updates.


Trump’s White House Ballroom | Rahul Gandhi’s Pune Youth Event |  Germany Slams Putin 

Rahul Gandhi’s dharna outside Delhi's parliament street police station is political theatre, but that does not make the question that he is raising any less serious. Right from the Monsoon Session of the parliament to the streets of the national capital, 20th July, this one date has created question after question, without a clear answer.&nbsp;On 20th July, a protest by students in Delhi ended up in violent clashes. Amid competing political narratives of ‘violence by protesters’ vs ‘excessive force by police’, one basic question is getting buried: what happened to the individual who suffered? Will his grievance receive due process? The government can certainly point to anti-social elements for the violence. The opposition can point to police action. Both can hold press conferences, trade accusations and score political brownie points.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-police-registers-fir-over-student-s-alleged-pellet-injuries-after-rahul-gandhi-s-six-hour-dharna-1787323586148">Delhi Police registers FIR over student's alleged pellet injuries after Rahul Gandhi's six-hour dharna</a>&nbsp;But why was a young man unable to register a simple FIR? Rahul Gandhi sitting at a police station may be dismissed as ‘politics of anarchy’ by the BJP, but the sharper question is this: if there's confidence that the July 20 actions were lawful, why should a transparent investigation and a properly recorded complaint be threatening?&nbsp;The opposition cannot convert every victim into a political prop. But the police and state have to ensure that trust is brought back. If there was violence by protesters, investigate it. If there was excessive force by police, investigate that transparently too. Accountability cannot have a political party's flag because ultimately the question is why must an ordinary citizen need a politician to sit on a dharna, before his grievance is taken seriously. Political noise should not bury individual voice.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/where-should-the-citizen-go-if-not-the-police-1787330752899/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/where-should-the-citizen-go-if-not-the-police-1787330752899/embed</a>

Rahul Gandhi’s Delhi police station dharna raises questions over the July 20 student clashes, FIR registration, police action, due process and accountability

Rahul Gandhi’s dharna outside Delhi's parliament street police station is political theatre, but that does not make the question that he is raising any less serious. Right from the Monsoon Session of the parliament to the streets of the national capital, 20th July, this one date has created question after question, without a clear answer. On 20th July, a protest by students in Delhi ended up in violent clashes. Amid competing political narratives of ‘violence by protesters’ vs ‘excessive force by police’, one basic question is getting buried: what happened to the individual who suffered? Will his grievance receive due process? The government can certainly point to anti-social elements for the violence. The opposition can point to police action. Both can hold press conferences, trade accusations and score political brownie points. Also Read: Delhi Police registers FIR over student's alleged pellet injuries after Rahul Gandhi's six-hour dharna But why was a young man unable to register a simple FIR? Rahul Gandhi sitting at a police station may be dismissed as ‘politics of anarchy’ by the BJP, but the sharper question is this: if there's confidence that the July 20 actions were lawful, why should a transparent investigation and a properly recorded complaint be threatening? The opposition cannot convert every victim into a political prop. But the police and state have to ensure that trust is brought back. If there was violence by protesters, investigate it. If there was excessive force by police, investigate that transparently too. Accountability cannot have a political party's flag because ultimately the question is why must an ordinary citizen need a politician to sit on a dharna, before his grievance is taken seriously. Political noise should not bury individual voice. https://www.wionews.com/videos/where-should-the-citizen-go-if-not-the-police-1787330752899/embed

Rahul Gandhi’s dharna may be political theatre, but the unanswered question remains: why couldn’t a young man register an FIR after the July 20 Delhi clashes?

Rahul Gandhi’s police station dharna: Political theatre, but a serious question remains

Delhi Police on Friday registered an FIR on a complaint alleging that student Sahil Lochav suffered pellet gun injuries during the July 20 protest at Jantar Mantar. The FIR was registered hours after Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi staged a dharna at Parliament Street Police Station, demanding action on the complaint. The Congress had alleged that police initially refused to register an FIR despite Lochav approaching them with a written complaint. On Friday, Gandhi accompanied the student to the police station and pressed authorities to take action.&nbsp;After the FIR was registered on Lochav's complaint, Gandhi and Lochav showed a copy of the FIR to media persons. Gandhi subsequently ended his more than six-hour dharna outside the Parliament Street police station. Earlier on Friday, Gandhi had sat on a dharna outside the office of the Deputy Commissioner of Police at Parliament Street Police Station, alleging that Delhi Police had failed to act on the student's complaint. “Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition, is on a dharna outside the DCP office, New Delhi, alleging that ‘Delhi Police refused to file FIR in the Pellet gun victim case’,” the Congress said in a post on X.<h2>What is the case?</h2>According to the Congress, Lochav, accompanied by his lawyers, submitted a written complaint to Delhi Police on August 14. The party claimed that the matter was followed up on August 17 through email and telephone calls, but no action was taken. The Congress also alleged that police neither provided an acknowledgement of the complaint nor an I/O number.&nbsp;Gandhi accompanied Lochav to the police station on Friday to demand registration of the case. The Congress maintained that the alleged offence was cognisable and that an FIR was therefore required to be registered. The police action came after Gandhi's protest at the station, with the Congress saying that the student's complaint had subsequently been converted into an FIR. There was no immediate detailed response from Delhi Police addressing the allegations or explaining the circumstances surrounding the registration of the case.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-president-murmu-congratulates-bangladesh-s-new-president-alamgir-1787323189376">Indian President Murmu congratulates Bangladesh’s new president Alamgir</a><h2>Pellet gun controversy</h2>The alleged use of pellet guns during the July 20 CJP protest has emerged as a major point of contention, with the opposition and CJP increasing pressure on Delhi Police over its handling of the demonstrations. There has been no official confirmation that pellet guns were used against protesters. However, an entry in the Parliament Street Police Station's daily diary, as reported by Hindustan Times, recorded the use of anti-riot guns and plastic pellets by Rapid Action Force personnel during the protest.&nbsp;According to the reported diary entry, RAF personnel fired two rounds from anti-riot guns and used two rounds of plastic pellets while attempting to control the crowd. The alleged injuries have led to calls for an independent investigation into the police response, including claims of pellet injuries as well as the use of other crowd-control measures.&nbsp;On Thursday, the Supreme Court constituted a five-member high-powered enquiry committee headed by former judge Justice R Subhash Reddy to examine allegations of police excesses during the protests. The committee will examine allegations concerning pellet guns, electric batons, lathi charges, tear gas and other crowd-control measures.

Delhi Police registers FIR on Sahil Lochav's alleged pellet gun injuries during the Jantar Mantar protest after Rahul Gandhi's dharna

Delhi Police on Friday registered an FIR on a complaint alleging that student Sahil Lochav suffered pellet gun injuries during the July 20 protest at Jantar Mantar. The FIR was registered hours after Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi staged a dharna at Parliament Street Police Station, demanding action on the complaint. The Congress had alleged that police initially refused to register an FIR despite Lochav approaching them with a written complaint. On Friday, Gandhi accompanied the student to the police station and pressed authorities to take action. After the FIR was registered on Lochav's complaint, Gandhi and Lochav showed a copy of the FIR to media persons. Gandhi subsequently ended his more than six-hour dharna outside the Parliament Street police station. Earlier on Friday, Gandhi had sat on a dharna outside the office of the Deputy Commissioner of Police at Parliament Street Police Station, alleging that Delhi Police had failed to act on the student's complaint. “Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition, is on a dharna outside the DCP office, New Delhi, alleging that ‘Delhi Police refused to file FIR in the Pellet gun victim case’,” the Congress said in a post on X. What is the case? According to the Congress, Lochav, accompanied by his lawyers, submitted a written complaint to Delhi Police on August 14. The party claimed that the matter was followed up on August 17 through email and telephone calls, but no action was taken. The Congress also alleged that police neither provided an acknowledgement of the complaint nor an I/O number. Gandhi accompanied Lochav to the police station on Friday to demand registration of the case. The Congress maintained that the alleged offence was cognisable and that an FIR was therefore required to be registered. The police action came after Gandhi's protest at the station, with the Congress saying that the student's complaint had subsequently been converted into an FIR. There was no immediate detailed response from Delhi Police addressing the allegations or explaining the circumstances surrounding the registration of the case. Also Read: Indian President Murmu congratulates Bangladesh’s new president Alamgir Pellet gun controversy The alleged use of pellet guns during the July 20 CJP protest has emerged as a major point of contention, with the opposition and CJP increasing pressure on Delhi Police over its handling of the demonstrations. There has been no official confirmation that pellet guns were used against protesters. However, an entry in the Parliament Street Police Station's daily diary, as reported by Hindustan Times, recorded the use of anti-riot guns and plastic pellets by Rapid Action Force personnel during the protest. According to the reported diary entry, RAF personnel fired two rounds from anti-riot guns and used two rounds of plastic pellets while attempting to control the crowd. The alleged injuries have led to calls for an independent investigation into the police response, including claims of pellet injuries as well as the use of other crowd-control measures. On Thursday, the Supreme Court constituted a five-member high-powered enquiry committee headed by former judge Justice R Subhash Reddy to examine allegations of police excesses during the protests. The committee will examine allegations concerning pellet guns, electric batons, lathi charges, tear gas and other crowd-control measures.

Delhi Police registers FIR over Sahil Lochav's alleged pellet injuries at Jantar Mantar protest after Rahul Gandhi's six-hour dharna

Delhi Police registers FIR over student's alleged pellet injuries after Rahul Gandhi's six-hour dharna

The political row over the alleged pellet firing at a Jantar Mantar protest has intensified, with Rahul Gandhi staging a sit-in outside a Delhi DCP office. Congress leaders accuse Delhi Police of refusing to register an FIR over the incident. Gandhi's protest has added fresh pressure on the Delhi Police and escalated the confrontation between the Congress and authorities over the alleged use of pellets against protesters.


Rahul Gandhi stages sit-in as Congress escalates Jantar Mantar pellet fir row

High drama unfolded in the national capital as Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi staged a sit-in (dharna) outside the DCP office at the Parliament Street Police Station. Gandhi was accompanied by 19-year-old Sahil Lochab, a student who alleged he suffered severe pellet gun injuries during a protest march toward Parliament.


Rahul Gandhi sits outside police station with pellet victim

Senior Congress leader and Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi on Friday (August 21) staged a dharna (sit-in) outside the Parliament Street Police Station demanding an FIR over the alleged use of pellet guns that resulted in a youth being hit during the July 20 Cockroach Janata Party-led protest over the NEET paper leak issue. The LoP sat on dharna accompanied by a 19-year-old protester identified as Sahil Lochab, who was hit by a pellet gun during police action. Sahil has experienced pellet injuries to the eyes and abdomen, and later underwent surgery at the AIIMS Trauma Centre.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/woman-crossing-road-in-hyderabad-dies-after-being-hit-speeding-aston-martin-case-filed-against-rajya-sabha-mp-s-son-1787295579465">Woman crossing road in Hyderabad dies after being hit speeding Aston Martin, case filed against Rajya Sabha MP's son</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra reaches Parliament Street Police Station. Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi continues to remain here after meeting the DCP. He is here with Sahil Lochav, who suffered pellet gun injuries during the Jantar Mantar students&#39; protest last… <a href="https://t.co/UpNmZWJ2zO">https://t.co/UpNmZWJ2zO</a> <a href="https://t.co/QCsNidDu5o">pic.twitter.com/QCsNidDu5o</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2090710472899318182?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 21, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Reports suggest that Lochav had contacted Delhi Police along with his lawyers on August 14 and submitted a written complaint. However, police reportedly did not give an I/O number or acknowledgement. The complaint was again pursued on August 17 via email and phone, but no I/O number or acknowledgement was provided from the police end.<h3>Priyanka Gandhi Vadra visited the station</h3>Rahul Gandhi visited the DCP office on Friday alongside Lochav to push for action and demand that a case be registered. According to media reports, the DCP once again failed to share details of the case officer or the I/O number. The complainant maintained that the alleged incident amounts to a cognisable offence, making FIR registration necessary. Sources said Rahul Gandhi has called for action on the complaint and urged that justice be delivered to the victim.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the Delhi Police have barricaded the area, closing the police station gates as Congress party workers and supporters attempted to enter, raising slogans. In addition, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also visited the station with party workers staging a dharna outside the gates.

The LoP sat on dharna accompanied by a 19-year-old protester identified as Sahil Lochab, who was hit by a pellet gun during police action. Sahil has experienced pellet injuries to the eyes and abdomen, and later underwent surgery at the AIIMS Trauma Centre.

Senior Congress leader and Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi on Friday (August 21) staged a dharna (sit-in) outside the Parliament Street Police Station demanding an FIR over the alleged use of pellet guns that resulted in a youth being hit during the July 20 Cockroach Janata Party-led protest over the NEET paper leak issue. The LoP sat on dharna accompanied by a 19-year-old protester identified as Sahil Lochab, who was hit by a pellet gun during police action. Sahil has experienced pellet injuries to the eyes and abdomen, and later underwent surgery at the AIIMS Trauma Centre. Also read: Woman crossing road in Hyderabad dies after being hit speeding Aston Martin, case filed against Rajya Sabha MP's son

The LoP sat on dharna accompanied by a 19-year-old protester identified as Sahil Lochab, who was hit by a pellet gun during police action. Sahil has experienced pellet injuries to the eyes and abdomen, and later underwent surgery at the AIIMS Trauma Centre.

Rahul Gandhi stages dharna outside Delhi police station, seeks FIR for pellet-hit protester at Jantar Mantar

Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi on Thursday (August 20) penned an emotional note to his mother, Sonia Gandhi, on the 82nd birth anniversary of his father and former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. He praised her "never-ending courage and dignity" over the 35 years since his father's death and expressed pride over her decision to share her life story with the public.&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi shared his message on X while introducing Sonia Gandhi's upcoming memoir, titled "Belonging: A Journey of Love". He said he felt proud that millions of people who love his mother would finally get an opportunity to read her story.<h2>Rahul Gandhi recalls mother's difficult journey</h2>Recalling the years after Rajiv Gandhi's death, Rahul Gandhi wrote, "Mama, I last saw you and Papa together more than 35 years ago. Since the day Papa left, I have watched you face everything life threw at you with never-ending courage and dignity. Only Priyanka and I really know what you have been through, and how difficult your life after Papa truly was."&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi also acknowledged that Sonia Gandhi has always kept her personal life private. He said sharing her experiences with the public was a difficult decision for her.&nbsp;"I am happy, and so proud, that your story--' Belonging: A Journey of Love'--will finally be read by the millions of people who love you. I know how hard it was for someone as private as you to tell the world your beautiful story. Today, on his birthday, I can see Papa smiling and looking down proudly at his beautiful Sonia," the Congress leader wrote.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/extreme-policy-of-appeasement-amit-shah-attacks-congress-over-vande-mataram-1787219367425">‘Extreme policy of appeasement’: Amit Shah attacks Congress over Vande Mataram</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Mama, I last saw you and Papa together more than 35 years ago. Since the day Papa left, I have watched you face everything life threw at you with never-ending courage and dignity. Only Priyanka and I really know what you have been through, and how difficult your life after Papa… <a href="https://t.co/OYumcZ2hnC">pic.twitter.com/OYumcZ2hnC</a>&mdash; Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://x.com/RahulGandhi/status/2090341208845647960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Sonia Gandhi memoir to be released in November</h2>Publisher Alfred A Knopf announced on Tuesday that Sonia Gandhi's memoir will be published on November 10. The book traces her journey from her childhood in post-war Italy to her relationship with Rajiv Gandhi and her life in India.&nbsp;The memoir also explores the personal losses that shaped her life, including the assassinations of her mother-in-law and former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and her husband Rajiv Gandhi.&nbsp;The 79-year-old Congress veteran, who served as the party's longest-serving president, also revisits her childhood in Italy and her romance with Rajiv Gandhi during their time at Cambridge.&nbsp;The book's cover features a black-and-white photograph of Sonia Gandhi from her youth. Alfred A. Knopf described the memoir as a story of love, family and India, while highlighting Sonia Gandhi's decision to open up about her private life.

Rahul Gandhi paid an emotional tribute to his mother, Sonia Gandhi, on the 80th birth anniversary of Rajiv Gandhi, praising her "never-ending courage and dignity" and expressing pride in her upcoming memoir, Belonging: A Journey of Love.

Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi on Thursday (August 20) penned an emotional note to his mother, Sonia Gandhi, on the 82nd birth anniversary of his father and former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. He praised her "never-ending courage and dignity" over the 35 years since his father's death and expressed pride over her decision to share her life story with the public. Rahul Gandhi shared his message on X while introducing Sonia Gandhi's upcoming memoir, titled "Belonging: A Journey of Love". He said he felt proud that millions of people who love his mother would finally get an opportunity to read her story. Rahul Gandhi recalls mother's difficult journey Recalling the years after Rajiv Gandhi's death, Rahul Gandhi wrote, "Mama, I last saw you and Papa together more than 35 years ago. Since the day Papa left, I have watched you face everything life threw at you with never-ending courage and dignity. Only Priyanka and I really know what you have been through, and how difficult your life after Papa truly was." Rahul Gandhi also acknowledged that Sonia Gandhi has always kept her personal life private. He said sharing her experiences with the public was a difficult decision for her. "I am happy, and so proud, that your story--' Belonging: A Journey of Love'--will finally be read by the millions of people who love you. I know how hard it was for someone as private as you to tell the world your beautiful story. Today, on his birthday, I can see Papa smiling and looking down proudly at his beautiful Sonia," the Congress leader wrote. Also Read: ‘Extreme policy of appeasement’: Amit Shah attacks Congress over Vande Mataram

Rahul Gandhi paid an emotional tribute to his mother, Sonia Gandhi, on the 80th birth anniversary of Rajiv Gandhi, praising her "never-ending courage and dignity" and expressing pride in her upcoming memoir, Belonging: A Journey of Love.

'Papa looking down proudly': Rahul Gandhi pens emotional note to Sonia ahead of memoir release

Congress Leader and Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday expressed support for tribals staging “Satyagraha” against the Ken-Betwa river-linking project in Madhya Pradesh. In a video of his recent meeting with a group of tribals affected by the project, Gandhi promised to visit the site and exert pressure on the government.&nbsp;"The problems, demands, struggles, and personal ordeals of the tribal brothers and sisters who are carrying out a satyagraha against the Ken-Betwa project -- their own account. For years, these residents of Bundelkhand have been enduring injustice and oppression solely for their rights; they deserve respect and support," Gandhi said in his post."In this fight of our tribal brothers and sisters, the Congress and I stand with them," Gandhi said.In the video, a tribal representative can be heard saying that the project would affect 11,500 acres of land belonging to approximately 7,000 families would be lost to the project. Around 21 tribal dominated village would be affected, and approximately 4.6 million trees, as well as the Panna Tiger Reserve, will be affected.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-germany-netherlands-oppose-us-sanctions-icc-1787139615468">ICC condemns US sanctions as ‘flagrant attack’; Japan, Germany and Netherlands back tribunal</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">केन-बेतवा परियोजना के खिलाफ सत्याग्रह कर रहे आदिवासी भाई-बहनों की समस्याएं, मांगें, संघर्ष और आपबीती - उनकी जुबानी। सालों से सिर्फ़ अपने अधिकारों के लिए अन्याय और अत्याचार सह रहे ये बुंदेलखंड निवासी सम्मान और समर्थन के हक़दार हैं। आदिवासी भाई-बहनों की इस लड़ाई में, मैं और… <a href="https://t.co/graNKRt4IE">pic.twitter.com/graNKRt4IE</a>&mdash; Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://x.com/RahulGandhi/status/2089972663506641226?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What is the Ken Betwa Link Project?</h2>The ₹44,605 crore project is the first River Link project under the National Perspective Plan. It aims to divert &nbsp;2,800 million cubic metres of water annually from the Ken River basin to the Betwa River basin via a 221-km link canal to alleviate water scarcity in the Bundelkhand region. It is supposed to provide irrigation facilities to 10.6 lakh hectares of farmland, unlocking multi-crop farming for 7 lakh families, drinking water to about 6.2 million people and generate hydropower.However, the project faced resistance with massive Satyagrahas or the "Chita Andolan", over social displacement, compensation disputes, and cultural and ecological disruption. The protests against the project have been going on for more than four months. With a hunger strike by tribal activist Amit Bhatnagar that lasted for 18 consecutive days and a police crackdown on the permanent encampments.

Rahul Gandhi has backed tribal protests against the Ken-Betwa river-linking project in Madhya Pradesh and promised to visit the site.

Congress Leader and Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday expressed support for tribals staging “Satyagraha” against the Ken-Betwa river-linking project in Madhya Pradesh. In a video of his recent meeting with a group of tribals affected by the project, Gandhi promised to visit the site and exert pressure on the government. "The problems, demands, struggles, and personal ordeals of the tribal brothers and sisters who are carrying out a satyagraha against the Ken-Betwa project -- their own account. For years, these residents of Bundelkhand have been enduring injustice and oppression solely for their rights; they deserve respect and support," Gandhi said in his post. "In this fight of our tribal brothers and sisters, the Congress and I stand with them," Gandhi said. In the video, a tribal representative can be heard saying that the project would affect 11,500 acres of land belonging to approximately 7,000 families would be lost to the project. Around 21 tribal dominated village would be affected, and approximately 4.6 million trees, as well as the Panna Tiger Reserve, will be affected. Also Read: ICC condemns US sanctions as ‘flagrant attack’; Japan, Germany and Netherlands back tribunal

Rahul Gandhi has backed tribal protests against the Ken-Betwa river-linking project in Madhya Pradesh and promised to visit the site.

Rahul Gandhi backs tribal 'Satyagraha' against Ken-Betwa river-linking project

Students protesting over the alleged irregularities in Jharkhand’s recruitment examinations on Sunday burnt effigies of Chief Minister Hemant Soren, Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav in Ranchi as their protest entered the 23rd day.&nbsp;The protesting students accused the JMM-Congress alliance government in the state of failing to take concrete action on their demands. They also announced plans to gherao the chief minister’s residence on August 20 and demanded Soren’s resignation.&nbsp;The demonstration began on Sunday with a torchlight march from Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium to Albert Ekka Chowk, where the students burnt the three effigies. The protesters said they would continue the agitation until the government addresses concerns over alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vande-mataram-row-escalates-bjp-lodges-complaint-against-sonia-gandhi-in-karnataka-1786901165963">Vande Mataram row escalates: BJP lodges complaint against Sonia Gandhi in Karnataka</a>&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Ranchi, Jharkhand | Protest by JPSC-JSSC aspirants | Students protesting against alleged irregularities in Jharkhand&#39;s recruitment examinations burn the effigies of Chief Minister Hemant Soren, Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi, and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav. <a href="https://t.co/lFNMd2FA2r">pic.twitter.com/lFNMd2FA2r</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2088985292581789838?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, the state government has invited the students for another round of talks on August 17, reported PTI, citing an official.&nbsp;The students had urged the Congress to withdraw support from the ruling coalition, saying the chief minister was not listening to their concerns.&nbsp;<h2>‘These people are like the dead’: Protester shaves head to ‘mourn’ leaders</h2>&nbsp;In a symbolic protest, one demonstrator even shaved his head and said he was mourning Rahul Gandhi and Hemant Soren. Calling himself their younger brother, Baha Linda, who shaved his head, accused both leaders of failing to support the students.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/telangana-cm-revanth-reddy-accuses-brs-leaders-of-using-black-magic-to-usurp-power-occult-charges-not-new-in-politics-1786884046815">Telangana CM Revanth Reddy accuses BRS leaders of using ‘black magic’ to usurp power; occult charges not new in politics</a>&nbsp;“I am the younger brother of Rahul Gandhi and Hemant Soren. It is my duty to dedicate my body, mind, and resources to their final rites. Once their cremation is over and the ashes remain, I will be the one who has to immerse them in the Swarnarekha Ghat to fulfil a younger brother’s duty,” he told ANI.&nbsp;“You cannot expect anything from the dead. These people are like the dead. They only develop their own families; they are trapped in dynastic politics. They garner votes from Jharkhand but develop only their own families, so one cannot expect much from the dead… I shaved my head. I am observing mourning for my elder brothers Rahul and Hemant Ji,” he added.&nbsp;<h2>‘Rahul Gandhi raising student issues selectively for political benefit’</h2>&nbsp;Another protester accused Rahul Gandhi of raising student issues selectively for his own political benefit.“When the NEET issue arose in Delhi, Rahul Gandhi took the stage and spoke very vocally about it. This implies that if you aren’t speaking up here, then you were merely using our future and the students’ plight to further your own political interests—essentially warming your seat of power at our expense,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-middle-east-commander-visits-uss-lincoln-amid-iran-war-gaza-and-lebanon-tensions-1786882278296">US top commander visits USS Lincoln amid Iran war, Gaza and Lebanon tensions</a>&nbsp;“The government needs to realise that students are becoming increasingly agitated; this is our right, and we will move heaven and earth—we will leave no stone unturned—to secure what is rightfully ours… Our only request to the government is to listen to our demands,” the protester added.&nbsp;<h2>Students demand revocation of whistleblower’s suspension</h2>&nbsp;The JPSC-JSSC Reforms Manch, which is spearheading the agitation, has called for the cancellation of the 14th JPSC examination and a CBI probe into all recruitment examinations.&nbsp;The students also want the findings of the investigation to be made public and action to be taken against those found responsible for alleged irregularities.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-may-stalemate-did-us-manage-to-communicate-directly-with-irgc-top-commander-1786894585305">After May stalemate, US manoeuvred to communicate directly with IRGC top commander</a>&nbsp;They are also demanding revocation of the suspension of finance department section officer Santosh Kumar Mastana and withdrawal of cases filed against him, as he was the ‘whistleblower’.&nbsp;The protesters have said they will not end the agitation until examinations in which irregularities have been alleged are cancelled and an independent investigation is ordered into the recruitment process.The protesters have appealed to students from across Jharkhand to reach Ranchi for the August 20 gherao.

The students demand CBI probe and the findings to be made public and action to be taken against those found responsible for alleged irregularities. They are also demanding revocation of the suspension of the whistleblower finance department section officer Santosh Kumar Mastana.

Students protesting over the alleged irregularities in Jharkhand’s recruitment examinations on Sunday burnt effigies of Chief Minister Hemant Soren, Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav in Ranchi as their protest entered the 23rd day. The protesting students accused the JMM-Congress alliance government in the state of failing to take concrete action on their demands. They also announced plans to gherao the chief minister’s residence on August 20 and demanded Soren’s resignation. The demonstration began on Sunday with a torchlight march from Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium to Albert Ekka Chowk, where the students burnt the three effigies. The protesters said they would continue the agitation until the government addresses concerns over alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations. Also Read: Vande Mataram row escalates: BJP lodges complaint against Sonia Gandhi in Karnataka

The students demand CBI probe and the findings to be made public and action to be taken against those found responsible for alleged irregularities. They are also demanding revocation of the suspension of the whistleblower finance department section officer Santosh Kumar Mastana.

Jharkhand students burn effigies of CM Hemant Soren, Rahul Gandhi, and Tejashwi Yadav; one tonsures head in ‘mourning’

A new account on X calling itself the ‘Dimagi Naxal Janta Party’ has emerged amid the political controversy surrounding Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent ‘dimagi naxal’ remark. The account, @DNJP_India, is currently following 13 accounts, including Congress leader and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal, YouTuber Dhruv Rathee, comedian Kunal Kamra, actor Prakash Raj and fact-checker Mohammed Zubair. The account also follows political content creator Arpit Sharma, YouTuber Shyam Meera Singh, political commentator Tarun Gautam, Dr Nimo Yadav 2.0, parody account Rofl Gandhi 2.0 and the Cockroach Janta Party.<h2>‘Dimagi’ message by Prakash Raj retweeted</h2>The newly emerged account has also retweeted a post by actor Prakash Raj, who urged people to question rather than blindly accept what they are told. Raj wrote, “Dimagi bano .. Bewakoof nahi. Sawaal karo .. Gulami nahi.” The account’s activity comes shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi referred to people with a ‘dimagi naxal’ mindset during his Independence Day address. The remark triggered a political response, with senior Congress leader P Chidambaram saying he was proud to be a ‘dimagi naxal’.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/asish-banerjee-death-suvendu-adhikari-probe-tmc-1786891083742">West Bengal CM orders probe as TMC MLA's death sparks political standoff between rival camps</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Our Weapon is the Mind, Our Revolution of Ideas Jain Hind, Vande Mataram 🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/LvTLKkiqDO">pic.twitter.com/LvTLKkiqDO</a>&mdash; Dimagi Naxal Janta Party (@DNJP_India) <a href="https://x.com/DNJP_India/status/2088993023799771503?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Kiren Rijiju explains ‘Dimagi Naxal’ remark</h2>Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju later said that Modi had not specifically referred to opposition leaders as ‘dimagi naxals’. Rijiju said the term was intended for people who support Maoists and reject the Indian Constitution, back separatists, support Article 370 or advocate cutting the 'chicken neck' connecting the Northeast with the rest of India. Rijiju also shared a video featuring remarks by Sharjeel Imam about the ‘chicken neck’ and said that those supporting such views were the people being referred to as ‘dimagi naxals’.&nbsp;Against this backdrop, the emergence of the Dimagi Naxal Janta Party account on X has added a new social-media angle to the ongoing political debate over the phrase.

‘Dimagi Naxal Janta Party’ account @DNJP_India emerges on X amid PM Modi’s remark, following Rahul Gandhi, Akhilesh Yadav and Prakash Raj

A new account on X calling itself the ‘Dimagi Naxal Janta Party’ has emerged amid the political controversy surrounding Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent ‘dimagi naxal’ remark. The account, @DNJP_India, is currently following 13 accounts, including Congress leader and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal, YouTuber Dhruv Rathee, comedian Kunal Kamra, actor Prakash Raj and fact-checker Mohammed Zubair. The account also follows political content creator Arpit Sharma, YouTuber Shyam Meera Singh, political commentator Tarun Gautam, Dr Nimo Yadav 2.0, parody account Rofl Gandhi 2.0 and the Cockroach Janta Party. ‘Dimagi’ message by Prakash Raj retweeted The newly emerged account has also retweeted a post by actor Prakash Raj, who urged people to question rather than blindly accept what they are told. Raj wrote, “Dimagi bano .. Bewakoof nahi. Sawaal karo .. Gulami nahi.” The account’s activity comes shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi referred to people with a ‘dimagi naxal’ mindset during his Independence Day address. The remark triggered a political response, with senior Congress leader P Chidambaram saying he was proud to be a ‘dimagi naxal’. Also Read: West Bengal CM orders probe as TMC MLA's death sparks political standoff between rival camps

A new ‘Dimagi Naxal Janta Party’ X account emerges amid the row over PM Modi’s remark, following opposition leaders and retweeting Prakash Raj

Now, ‘Dimagi Naxal Janta Party’ emerges after PM's remark. Rahul Gandhi, Arvind Kejriwal follow its X account

Breaking news from Parliament: Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi has been issued a notice concerning an alleged breach of privilege and contempt of the House.

The notice follows complaints submitted by BJP leaders over remarks Rahul Gandhi allegedly made against Union Home Minister Amit Shah during the Monsoon Session of Parliament.

The BJP has alleged that Gandhi used unparliamentary and derogatory expressions and made serious claims without providing evidence. The controversy comes amid heated exchanges between the government and opposition over police action during protests in New Delhi.

The latest notice adds another layer to the ongoing political confrontation between the BJP and Congress.

Rahul Gandhi Gets Notice of Breach of Privilege & Contempt | BREAKING 

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) IT Cell chief Amit Malviya on Friday (Aug 14) launched a fresh attack on Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi and party leader Sandeep Dikshit over their remarks during a recent Congress event, calling them “far more disturbing” than a mere “locker-room conversation”. The BJP leader’s remarks came after Gandhi and Dikshit aimed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s foreign policy during the Rachnatmak Congress national convention.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-pilot-tests-positive-for-marijuana-again-can-a-pilot-fly-after-testing-positive-for-drugs-india-us-and-uk-rules-explained-1786525753858">Air India pilot tests positive for Marijuana again: Can a pilot fly after testing positive for drugs? India, US and UK rules explained</a>&nbsp;During the event, Gandhi hugged Dikshit while criticising Modi’s gestures towards international dignitaries. Dikshit then quipped, “Meloni samajh ke toh nahi pakda tha? (You weren’t hugging me thinking I was Meloni?)”, referring to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-s-shehbaz-sharif-warns-india-over-indus-waters-treaty-brings-up-operation-sindoor-ahead-of-80th-independence-day-1786675429889">Pakistan’s Shehbaz Sharif warns India over Indus Waters Treaty, brings up Operation Sindoor ahead of 80th Independence Day</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Rahul Gandhi and Sandeep Dikshit’s remarks reveal something far more disturbing than a mere “locker-room conversation.” Let us not sanitise this perversion with euphemisms. The crassness lies precisely in the way women in public life are reduced to objects of gratification…&mdash; Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) <a href="https://x.com/amitmalviya/status/2087985542499913994?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What Amit Malviya said</h2>Reacting to the exchange, Malviya said in a post on X that the remarks by Gandhi and Dikshit “reveal something far more disturbing than a mere ‘locker-room conversation’”. He alleged that the exchange reflected an attitude in which women in public life are “reduced to objects of gratification”, rather than being viewed as professionals, leaders and individuals deserving dignity.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-s-80th-independence-day-from-1947-to-2026-how-the-country-s-map-changed-over-80-years-1786422165717">India’s 80th Independence Day: From 1947 to 2026 - How the country's map changed over 80 years</a>&nbsp;“Let us not sanitise this perversion with euphemisms,” Malviya wrote, adding that the issue was not about being politically incorrect but about “basic decency”.&nbsp;The BJP leader’s remarks add to the ongoing political criticism surrounding Gandhi’s comments on Modi’s foreign policy and the Congress leaders’ exchange at the convention. &nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/assam-floods-over-1-6-lakh-affected-as-death-toll-mounts-to-95-know-updates-here-1785984761991">Assam floods: Over 1.6 lakh affected as death toll mounts to 95. Know updates here</a>

BJP’s Amit Malviya criticised Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Sandeep Dikshit over a remark referencing Italian PM Giorgia Meloni, calling it a perversion that objectifies women rather than basic political banter.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) IT Cell chief Amit Malviya on Friday (Aug 14) launched a fresh attack on Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi and party leader Sandeep Dikshit over their remarks during a recent Congress event, calling them “far more disturbing” than a mere “locker-room conversation”. The BJP leader’s remarks came after Gandhi and Dikshit aimed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s foreign policy during the Rachnatmak Congress national convention. Also read: Air India pilot tests positive for Marijuana again: Can a pilot fly after testing positive for drugs? India, US and UK rules explained During the event, Gandhi hugged Dikshit while criticising Modi’s gestures towards international dignitaries. Dikshit then quipped, “Meloni samajh ke toh nahi pakda tha? (You weren’t hugging me thinking I was Meloni?)”, referring to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Also read: Pakistan’s Shehbaz Sharif warns India over Indus Waters Treaty, brings up Operation Sindoor ahead of 80th Independence Day

BJP’s Amit Malviya criticised Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Sandeep Dikshit over a remark referencing Italian PM Giorgia Meloni, calling it a perversion that objectifies women rather than basic political banter.

‘This is about basic decency’: BJP sharpens attack on Rahul Gandhi, Sandeep Dikshit over ‘Meloni’ hug remark

Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in the parliament Rahul Gandhi on Thursday (Aug 13) said that the BJP-led government at the Centre was increasingly unsettled by people's voices, while their job is to let the people of India express themselves. Speaking at the Ratchnatmak Congress National Convention in Delhi he also took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.&nbsp;“Our job is very simple and we can drive them crazy...I am telling you, (PM) Narendra Modi does not sleep at night,” Rahul said.&nbsp;While he questioned Union Home Minister Amit Shah's absence from the parliament and said for the first time the BJP led government is "feeling India’s expression".&nbsp;You saw Amit Shah, the so-called—what was he called? Chanakya, what else? Sardar Patel. Where has he disappeared? He couldn't come to the Parliament House for 20 days. Why? Because for the first time, they are feeling India's expression. And now they have realised that this country will not stop expressing itself," he said.&nbsp;<h2>“You cannot express yourselves”</h2>&nbsp;He also slammed the Modi government for its handling of the Jantar Mantar protests over the NEET-UG paper leak.&nbsp;"What was happening at Jantar Mantar is that students want to express themselves. They are in pain, and they want to express themselves, and the government says no. We are going to create order at Jantar Mantar. You cannot express yourselves," he said.&nbsp;Gandhi accused the BJP of "imposing an order on India that benefits them."&nbsp;So their job and their political philosophy is to impose an order on India, an order that benefits them and certain other people. And our job is to make India express itself and break that order,” Gandhi added.&nbsp;The CJP-led protest at Jantar Mantar ended after the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan as Education Minister. Opposition parties in Parliament demanded a statement from Home Minister Amit Shah on "police action" against the protestors.&nbsp;

Rahul questioned Union Home Minister Amit Shah's absence from the parliament and said for the first time the BJP led government is "feeling India’s expression".

Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in the parliament Rahul Gandhi on Thursday (Aug 13) said that the BJP-led government at the Centre was increasingly unsettled by people's voices, while their job is to let the people of India express themselves. Speaking at the Ratchnatmak Congress National Convention in Delhi he also took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. “Our job is very simple and we can drive them crazy...I am telling you, (PM) Narendra Modi does not sleep at night,” Rahul said. While he questioned Union Home Minister Amit Shah's absence from the parliament and said for the first time the BJP led government is "feeling India’s expression". You saw Amit Shah, the so-called—what was he called? Chanakya, what else? Sardar Patel. Where has he disappeared? He couldn't come to the Parliament House for 20 days. Why? Because for the first time, they are feeling India's expression. And now they have realised that this country will not stop expressing itself," he said. “You cannot express yourselves” He also slammed the Modi government for its handling of the Jantar Mantar protests over the NEET-UG paper leak. "What was happening at Jantar Mantar is that students want to express themselves. They are in pain, and they want to express themselves, and the government says no. We are going to create order at Jantar Mantar. You cannot express yourselves," he said. Gandhi accused the BJP of "imposing an order on India that benefits them." So their job and their political philosophy is to impose an order on India, an order that benefits them and certain other people. And our job is to make India express itself and break that order,” Gandhi added. The CJP-led protest at Jantar Mantar ended after the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan as Education Minister. Opposition parties in Parliament demanded a statement from Home Minister Amit Shah on "police action" against the protestors.

Rahul questioned Union Home Minister Amit Shah's absence from the parliament and said for the first time the BJP led government is "feeling India’s expression".

'We can drive them crazy, Modi does not sleep at night': Rahul Gandhi attacks PM, Amit Shah

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday (Aug 12) has broken his silence on Opposition's demands for his statement in Parliament over police brutality on Jul 20 on New Delhi. Shah said that the government is "ready for a discussion from 3pm today." He said that if the Opposition is ready, a discussion can be held in Parliament from Wednesday, 3pm to Thursday, 3 pm. Shah said that discussions on serious matters, including the police action on student protests during the NEET paper leak agitation, cannot be discussed in a hurry. Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi signalled the opposition's unwillingness and said that they are not ready to hear his lecture.<h2>What Shah said?</h2>Union home minister Amit Shah said, “The Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA government is ready for all discussions. I will answer all the questions, but the House should be allowed to function.” He added, "There are established rules and procedures for parliamentary discussions," he added. “Ever since the Parliament session began, I have been coming to Parliament continuously and sitting in my chamber. Since the opposition is not letting Parliament function in both houses, what can anyone do by going there?” Shah expressed confidence in responding to the Opposition if a discussion were to take place later in the day, saying that the Centre has "nothing to hide." "In Parliament, discussions are held at length. I am ready for the debate to continue from 3pm today, sitting late into the night and continuing until 3pm tomorrow," he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-wants-rahul-gandhi-s-response-on-jharkhand-lathi-charge-opposition-asks-where-is-amit-shah-1786429889298/amp">BJP wants Rahul Gandhi's response on Jharkhand lathi-charge, Opposition asks: 'Where is Amit Shah'</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah says, &quot;I want to tell the Opposition: submit a letter to the Speaker by 2:00 PM, we will start the discussion at 3:00 PM, and I will provide answers to everything by 3:00 PM tomorrow. There are established rules and procedures for… <a href="https://t.co/Q8ZdZfvxdW">pic.twitter.com/Q8ZdZfvxdW</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2087428741404504402?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What Rahul Gandhi responded?</h2>Congress MP Rahul Gandhi said that the Opposition was not interested in a "lecture." Hitting out at the Home Minister, Gandhi demanded answers on the alleged use of force against protesters. He questioned who ordered the alleged firing and lathicharge against student protesters and sought accountability from the home minister. He also accused Shah of being absent from Parliament and said the Home Minister lacked the courage to face the House. Speaking to the reporters outside the Parliament complex, the Congress leader said, "The Opposition has clearly said that we are not interested in Amit Shah giving us a lecture. When I say 'we', I mean the younger generation of this country. Who shot the students? Who gave the order to beat up the students with lathis with nails? Did Amit Shah give this order to shoot our children? If he did, then he should resign. For the last 20 days, Amit Shah has been missing. The Home Minister of India has no courage; he cannot come to the House."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-amit-shah-and-gandhis-top-leaders-attend-wedding-reception-of-supriya-sule-s-daughter-1786451662920">PM Modi, Amit Shah, and Gandhis: Top leaders attend wedding reception of Supriya Sule’s daughter</a>&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi | LoP, Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi says, &quot;The Opposition has clearly said that we are not interested in Amit Shah giving us a lecture. When I say &#39;we&#39;, I mean the younger generation of this country. Who shot the students? Who gave the order to beat up the students with… <a href="https://t.co/2TSom00vLe">pic.twitter.com/2TSom00vLe</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2087431491664097718?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Amit Shah offered to hold a detailed Parliament debate on student protests and alleged police action, asking the Opposition to submit a letter by 2 pm. Rahul Gandhi rejected the offer as a “lecture”, demanding answers over who ordered force against protesters and accountability from Shah.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday (Aug 12) has broken his silence on Opposition's demands for his statement in Parliament over police brutality on Jul 20 on New Delhi. Shah said that the government is "ready for a discussion from 3pm today." He said that if the Opposition is ready, a discussion can be held in Parliament from Wednesday, 3pm to Thursday, 3 pm. Shah said that discussions on serious matters, including the police action on student protests during the NEET paper leak agitation, cannot be discussed in a hurry. Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi signalled the opposition's unwillingness and said that they are not ready to hear his lecture. What Shah said? Union home minister Amit Shah said, “The Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA government is ready for all discussions. I will answer all the questions, but the House should be allowed to function.” He added, "There are established rules and procedures for parliamentary discussions," he added. “Ever since the Parliament session began, I have been coming to Parliament continuously and sitting in my chamber. Since the opposition is not letting Parliament function in both houses, what can anyone do by going there?” Shah expressed confidence in responding to the Opposition if a discussion were to take place later in the day, saying that the Centre has "nothing to hide." "In Parliament, discussions are held at length. I am ready for the debate to continue from 3pm today, sitting late into the night and continuing until 3pm tomorrow," he added. Also Read: BJP wants Rahul Gandhi's response on Jharkhand lathi-charge, Opposition asks: 'Where is Amit Shah'

Amit Shah offered to hold a detailed Parliament debate on student protests and alleged police action, asking the Opposition to submit a letter by 2 pm. Rahul Gandhi rejected the offer as a “lecture”, demanding answers over who ordered force against protesters and accountability from Shah.

‘At 3pm today…’: Amit Shah offers Parliament debate on student protests, Rahul Gandhi rejects ‘lecture’

Union Minister Giriraj Singh shared a picture of the Leader of the Opposition, Rahul Gandhi, vacationing on the social media platform X. The picture showed the Congress leader along with a woman wearing a black head scarf and tinted sunglasses and a young boy sitting between them. They were sitting on a boat with the open blue sea visible in the background. Singh posted the picture and asked Rahul Gandhi to identify the individuals in the picture.“Rahul ji, where was this picture taken, when was it taken, and who are the people with you in this picture? I am curious to know!” wrote Union Minister Giriraj Singh in the post.&nbsp;Responding to the post, Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate called Giriraj Singh a “lechrous man”. She clarified that the woman and the boy were the wife and children of a friend of Rahul Gandhi.&nbsp;“You are a lecherous kind of man, who can only think vile thoughts upon seeing a woman and a man together.”"The woman and child in the picture are the wife and child of Rahul ji's friend—they were on a family vacation together. The friend is not in the photo.Women are not comfortable around slimy creeps like you—don't get frustrated," said Supriya Shrinate.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/azadi-slogan-history-india-dissent-protests-1786378471994">How 'Azadi' evolved from anti colonial rallying cry to political flashpoint</a>Avid Dandiya, the Social Media in-charge of Indian Overseas Congress, said the photograph was taken in Lake Ray Roberts, Texas, US. Former Youth Congress Chief Srinivas BV also responded to Singh's post saying, “Curiosity isn't a good thing in old age... consult a good doctor.”Rahul Gandhi's foreign trips have been the focus of the BJP's criticism, as he returned from a foreign trip between June and July. BJP leaders have repeatedly enquired about the details of the foreign trips of Rahul Gandhi, claiming that they lack transparency. The BJP has claimed that Rahul Gandhi has made 54 traceable foreign trips, including trips to London, New York, Italy, Germany, Qatar, Vietnam, Cambodia, Maldives and Dubai. They also claimed that Rahul Gandhi made a “secret” trip to Oman. The BJP also claims that there is a mismatch between Gandhi's declared income and the expenditure of the foreign trips, which, according to them, cost roughly around ₹60 crores. &nbsp;The BJP cites a 2025 communication from the CRPF which alleges Gandhi did not provide prior notice on several occasions before visiting outside, which prevents security agencies from arranging necessary overseas protection as laid out in the "Yellow Book" for VIP security.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Giriraj Singh questioned Rahul Gandhi over a vacation photo, prompting Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate to hit back and clarify who the woman and child were.

Union Minister Giriraj Singh shared a picture of the Leader of the Opposition, Rahul Gandhi, vacationing on the social media platform X. The picture showed the Congress leader along with a woman wearing a black head scarf and tinted sunglasses and a young boy sitting between them. They were sitting on a boat with the open blue sea visible in the background. Singh posted the picture and asked Rahul Gandhi to identify the individuals in the picture. “Rahul ji, where was this picture taken, when was it taken, and who are the people with you in this picture? I am curious to know!” wrote Union Minister Giriraj Singh in the post. Responding to the post, Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate called Giriraj Singh a “lechrous man”. She clarified that the woman and the boy were the wife and children of a friend of Rahul Gandhi. “You are a lecherous kind of man, who can only think vile thoughts upon seeing a woman and a man together.” "The woman and child in the picture are the wife and child of Rahul ji's friend—they were on a family vacation together. The friend is not in the photo. Women are not comfortable around slimy creeps like you—don't get frustrated," said Supriya Shrinate. Also Read: How 'Azadi' evolved from anti colonial rallying cry to political flashpoint Avid Dandiya, the Social Media in-charge of Indian Overseas Congress, said the photograph was taken in Lake Ray Roberts, Texas, US. Former Youth Congress Chief Srinivas BV also responded to Singh's post saying, “Curiosity isn't a good thing in old age... consult a good doctor.” Rahul Gandhi's foreign trips have been the focus of the BJP's criticism, as he returned from a foreign trip between June and July. BJP leaders have repeatedly enquired about the details of the foreign trips of Rahul Gandhi, claiming that they lack transparency. The BJP has claimed that Rahul Gandhi has made 54 traceable foreign trips, including trips to London, New York, Italy, Germany, Qatar, Vietnam, Cambodia, Maldives and Dubai. They also claimed that Rahul Gandhi made a “secret” trip to Oman. The BJP also claims that there is a mismatch between Gandhi's declared income and the expenditure of the foreign trips, which, according to them, cost roughly around ₹60 crores. The BJP cites a 2025 communication from the CRPF which alleges Gandhi did not provide prior notice on several occasions before visiting outside, which prevents security agencies from arranging necessary overseas protection as laid out in the "Yellow Book" for VIP security.

Giriraj Singh questioned Rahul Gandhi over a vacation photo, prompting Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate to hit back and clarify who the woman and child were.

‘Who are the people with you?’- BJP questions Rahul Gandhi's vacation picture, Congress responds

Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Saturday addressed a large gathering of students and competitive exam aspirants at the ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ event in Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj, focusing on unemployment, recruitment delays, education and the use of young people’s data. Speaking at the Kayastha Pathshala (KP) Ground, Gandhi said his address would centre on “dard” (pain), “data” and “daulat” (wealth), while questioning the lack of employment opportunities for India’s youth. “This evening I want to speak to you about dard (pain), data, and daulat (wealth)…. Data aapka, dard aapka aur daulat inki (Your data, your pain, but their wealth),” he said.&nbsp;The Congress leader described India’s youth population as the country’s greatest strength. He said around 40 crore young people form a major national asset and argued that Indian youth are unmatched despite the frequent focus on countries such as the United States, China and Russia.<h2>Rahul Gandhi questions value of degrees</h2>Gandhi also raised concerns over the growing gap between education and employment in India. He argued that obtaining a degree is no longer enough to secure a job. “All doors of employment are closed in India,” Gandhi said. He further criticised what he described as a system in which young people’s data is collected and subsequently used by large companies while employment opportunities remain limited.&nbsp;"People's Data is snatched away and handed over to big companies. Then you're told, Make reels and content. But know this, reel is the new addiction of the 21st century. After all this, the youth are told: 'Work at Blinkit, Uber. Do labour, make reels, but you can't get a job in this country,'" he added. Gandhi’s remarks came as students and competitive examination aspirants gathered in large numbers at the Prayagraj event despite difficult weather conditions.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-upi-fee-for-users-select-merchant-transactions-may-face-charges-govt-1786198882814">No UPI fee for users, select merchant transactions may face charges: Govt</a><h2>Waterlogging at KP Ground ahead of event</h2>The KP Ground was waterlogged following overnight rainfall, with muddy patches visible across the venue. According to PTI, party workers used buckets to remove accumulated water as preparations continued. JCB machines were also brought in to spread limestone and sand over waterlogged areas, while a road roller was used to level the ground before the programme. Earlier in the day, Gandhi received a welcome at Prayagraj airport from Congress leaders and party workers, including Ujjwal Raman Singh, the MP representing the Allahabad parliamentary constituency.<h2>Rahul Gandhi raises recruitment and paper leak issues</h2>Gandhi had said on Friday that his Prayagraj visit would focus on unemployment, delays in recruitment and challenges faced by students and competitive exam aspirants. Ahead of the visit, the Congress leader argued that young people were working hard to secure their futures but were being held back by problems including paper leaks, stalled recruitment processes and what he described as a lack of accountability. His Prayagraj address therefore placed youth employment, recruitment, education and data at the centre of his message, with Gandhi arguing that India needs to create greater opportunities for its large young population.

Rahul Gandhi in Prayagraj speaks on youth unemployment, degrees, recruitment delays, paper leaks and data, saying India's youth face a jobs crisis

Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Saturday addressed a large gathering of students and competitive exam aspirants at the ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ event in Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj, focusing on unemployment, recruitment delays, education and the use of young people’s data. Speaking at the Kayastha Pathshala (KP) Ground, Gandhi said his address would centre on “dard” (pain), “data” and “daulat” (wealth), while questioning the lack of employment opportunities for India’s youth. “This evening I want to speak to you about dard (pain), data, and daulat (wealth)…. Data aapka, dard aapka aur daulat inki (Your data, your pain, but their wealth),” he said. The Congress leader described India’s youth population as the country’s greatest strength. He said around 40 crore young people form a major national asset and argued that Indian youth are unmatched despite the frequent focus on countries such as the United States, China and Russia. Rahul Gandhi questions value of degrees Gandhi also raised concerns over the growing gap between education and employment in India. He argued that obtaining a degree is no longer enough to secure a job. “All doors of employment are closed in India,” Gandhi said. He further criticised what he described as a system in which young people’s data is collected and subsequently used by large companies while employment opportunities remain limited. "People's Data is snatched away and handed over to big companies. Then you're told, Make reels and content. But know this, reel is the new addiction of the 21st century. After all this, the youth are told: 'Work at Blinkit, Uber. Do labour, make reels, but you can't get a job in this country,'" he added. Gandhi’s remarks came as students and competitive examination aspirants gathered in large numbers at the Prayagraj event despite difficult weather conditions. Also Read: No UPI fee for users, select merchant transactions may face charges: Govt Waterlogging at KP Ground ahead of event The KP Ground was waterlogged following overnight rainfall, with muddy patches visible across the venue. According to PTI, party workers used buckets to remove accumulated water as preparations continued. JCB machines were also brought in to spread limestone and sand over waterlogged areas, while a road roller was used to level the ground before the programme. Earlier in the day, Gandhi received a welcome at Prayagraj airport from Congress leaders and party workers, including Ujjwal Raman Singh, the MP representing the Allahabad parliamentary constituency. Rahul Gandhi raises recruitment and paper leak issues Gandhi had said on Friday that his Prayagraj visit would focus on unemployment, delays in recruitment and challenges faced by students and competitive exam aspirants. Ahead of the visit, the Congress leader argued that young people were working hard to secure their futures but were being held back by problems including paper leaks, stalled recruitment processes and what he described as a lack of accountability. His Prayagraj address therefore placed youth employment, recruitment, education and data at the centre of his message, with Gandhi arguing that India needs to create greater opportunities for its large young population.

Rahul Gandhi in Prayagraj highlighted youth unemployment, recruitment delays, paper leaks and data concerns, saying degrees no longer guarantee jobs

'Degree certificate means nothing in India today': Rahul Gandhi's big statement on India's jobs 'crisis'

Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri on Friday defended India's E20 petrol rollout, saying the country's fuel retail network remained resilient despite recent global supply disruptions.&nbsp;Speaking at the CII International Energy Conference &amp; Exhibition, Puri also addressed concerns over the quality of ethanol-blended petrol following a July 28 letter from an industry body. He said oil marketing companies had already started intensive testing two weeks before the concerns were raised.&nbsp;According to Puri, dedicated teams collected nearly 2,000 petrol samples every day from fuel stations across the country. Of the 107,000 retail outlets operating in India, which serve around six to seven crore customers daily, testing found only four cases of contamination. Puri said some parties were presenting these findings without the full context.&nbsp;India's fuel retail network has more than doubled since 2014, when the country had around 52,000 outlets. Puri said the network now has roughly 107,000 outlets and none had run out of fuel despite pressure on global supplies.<h3>Puri highlights India's fuel resilience</h3>Puri attributed the stability to diversified crude oil sourcing, resilient infrastructure, international partnerships, technology upgrades and strategic reserves. India currently has around 74 days of reserve capacity, he said.&nbsp;He also highlighted India's growing position in the global energy market. India is now the world's third largest energy consumer and importer and the fourth largest refiner. Its energy demand is growing at around three times the global average.&nbsp;Citing the International Energy Agency, Puri said India could account for nearly 30% of the increase in global oil demand between now and 2050.&nbsp;The remarks came as the nationwide rollout of petrol blended with 20% ethanol continues to face political and consumer criticism. The policy aims to reduce crude oil imports and emissions, but critics have raised concerns over lower mileage, compatibility with older vehicles and limited choice for consumers at fuel stations.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/public-nuisance-meta-hit-with-567-million-penalty-over-child-safety-in-us-1786119442313">‘Public nuisance’: Meta hit with $567 million penalty over child safety in US</a><h3>Rahul Gandhi steps up E20 attack</h3>Lok Sabha Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Friday intensified his criticism of the government's E20 fuel policy.&nbsp;In a video message posted on X, Gandhi used the Hindi idiom "daal mein kuch kaala hai" to suggest that something was suspicious about the system surrounding the fuel shift. He also explained why the Opposition had not raised every alleged wrongdoing at the same time.&nbsp;Gandhi said political campaigns require "sequencing" because the number of issues and alleged corruption cases was too large to address simultaneously.&nbsp;"This is a matter of sequencing. In any campaign, we have to decide the sequence of affairs. Our problem right now is that there is so much corruption that there is a huge list of issues that we have to sequence," Gandhi said.&nbsp;He said the E20 policy would receive greater attention from the Opposition and alleged that higher ethanol blending was damaging vehicles and increasing financial pressure on people.&nbsp;"Don't worry, we are going to take up this issue in a massive way because this is destroying people's cars, destroying people's scooters, destroying people's lives and literally stealing directly from them," he said.

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri defended the E20 petrol rollout and India's fuel network, while Rahul Gandhi stepped up his criticism of the ethanol blending policy.

Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri on Friday defended India's E20 petrol rollout, saying the country's fuel retail network remained resilient despite recent global supply disruptions. Speaking at the CII International Energy Conference & Exhibition, Puri also addressed concerns over the quality of ethanol-blended petrol following a July 28 letter from an industry body. He said oil marketing companies had already started intensive testing two weeks before the concerns were raised. According to Puri, dedicated teams collected nearly 2,000 petrol samples every day from fuel stations across the country. Of the 107,000 retail outlets operating in India, which serve around six to seven crore customers daily, testing found only four cases of contamination. Puri said some parties were presenting these findings without the full context. India's fuel retail network has more than doubled since 2014, when the country had around 52,000 outlets. Puri said the network now has roughly 107,000 outlets and none had run out of fuel despite pressure on global supplies. Puri highlights India's fuel resilience Puri attributed the stability to diversified crude oil sourcing, resilient infrastructure, international partnerships, technology upgrades and strategic reserves. India currently has around 74 days of reserve capacity, he said. He also highlighted India's growing position in the global energy market. India is now the world's third largest energy consumer and importer and the fourth largest refiner. Its energy demand is growing at around three times the global average. Citing the International Energy Agency, Puri said India could account for nearly 30% of the increase in global oil demand between now and 2050. The remarks came as the nationwide rollout of petrol blended with 20% ethanol continues to face political and consumer criticism. The policy aims to reduce crude oil imports and emissions, but critics have raised concerns over lower mileage, compatibility with older vehicles and limited choice for consumers at fuel stations. Also Read: ‘Public nuisance’: Meta hit with $567 million penalty over child safety in US Rahul Gandhi steps up E20 attack Lok Sabha Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Friday intensified his criticism of the government's E20 fuel policy. In a video message posted on X, Gandhi used the Hindi idiom "daal mein kuch kaala hai" to suggest that something was suspicious about the system surrounding the fuel shift. He also explained why the Opposition had not raised every alleged wrongdoing at the same time. Gandhi said political campaigns require "sequencing" because the number of issues and alleged corruption cases was too large to address simultaneously. "This is a matter of sequencing. In any campaign, we have to decide the sequence of affairs. Our problem right now is that there is so much corruption that there is a huge list of issues that we have to sequence," Gandhi said. He said the E20 policy would receive greater attention from the Opposition and alleged that higher ethanol blending was damaging vehicles and increasing financial pressure on people. "Don't worry, we are going to take up this issue in a massive way because this is destroying people's cars, destroying people's scooters, destroying people's lives and literally stealing directly from them," he said.

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri defended the E20 petrol rollout and India's fuel network, while Rahul Gandhi stepped up his criticism of the ethanol blending policy.

E20 petrol row: Puri says only four contaminated samples found, Rahul Gandhi steps up attack

Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Thursday (August 06) broke his silence on the ongoing student protest in Jharkhand, saying governments must listen to students and reform the country's education system.&nbsp;Replying to a question during an 'Ask Me Anything' session on Instagram, the Congress leader said the protests reflect deeper problems in the education system. He claimed the current system has become expensive and "oppressive" and urged all governments to address students' concerns.<h2>Gandhi urges governments to act</h2>“Student protests in the country are happening against the education system. I have clearly said in Dehradun and Kota, and I am going to say in Allahabad as well that our education system has collapsed. It is expensive and oppressive. Every government must listen to students and take action to change the education system, whether it is a Congress government, the central government, or the Jharkhand government," Gandhi said.&nbsp;His remarks came even as the Congress is part of the ruling coalition in Jharkhand. The party had already extended support to students protesting at Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium in Ranchi over alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gen-z-gen-alpha-more-honest-than-current-generation-says-rss-chief-bhagwat-in-interaction-with-students-1786023696900">Gen Z, Gen Alpha not 'anti nationals', they are more honest than current generation, says RSS chief Bhagwat</a>&nbsp;Earlier in the day, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also backed the protesters, saying his party stands with students and youth "whether it is Jharkhand, Punjab, Delhi or anywhere else".The BJP, however, targeted the Congress over its stand. Koderma MLA Neera Yadav said, “The Congress puts up one mask when the stir is in Delhi and a different one for Jharkhand."

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<h2>Jharkhand protest gathers momentum</h2>The protest began on July 25 under the banner of the JPSC JSSC Reforms Manch at Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium in Ranchi. It has since emerged as one of the largest student-led movements in the state in recent years.&nbsp;The protesters are demanding the cancellation of the 14th Jharkhand Public Service Commission Civil Services Examination and an independent investigation into alleged irregularities in the recruitment process. They have sought either a Central Bureau of Investigation probe or an inquiry by a panel of retired High Court judges from outside the state.&nbsp;The agitation intensified after five protesters, including two women, joined Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha leader Devendra Nath Mahto in a hunger strike. Mahto has been fasting for the past five days, and concerns over his health have grown after his blood sugar and blood pressure levels dropped significantly.&nbsp;Gandhi has also been vocal in support of students during the Cockroach Janta Party-led protests over alleged irregularities in the NEET UG examination, a movement that resulted in the resignation of former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Rahul Gandhi broke his silence on the Jharkhand student protest, calling for education reforms and urging governments to listen to students as the agitation over alleged recruitment irregularities continued.

Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Thursday (August 06) broke his silence on the ongoing student protest in Jharkhand, saying governments must listen to students and reform the country's education system. Replying to a question during an 'Ask Me Anything' session on Instagram, the Congress leader said the protests reflect deeper problems in the education system. He claimed the current system has become expensive and "oppressive" and urged all governments to address students' concerns. Gandhi urges governments to act “Student protests in the country are happening against the education system. I have clearly said in Dehradun and Kota, and I am going to say in Allahabad as well that our education system has collapsed. It is expensive and oppressive. Every government must listen to students and take action to change the education system, whether it is a Congress government, the central government, or the Jharkhand government," Gandhi said. His remarks came even as the Congress is part of the ruling coalition in Jharkhand. The party had already extended support to students protesting at Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium in Ranchi over alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations. Also Read: Gen Z, Gen Alpha not 'anti nationals', they are more honest than current generation, says RSS chief Bhagwat Earlier in the day, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also backed the protesters, saying his party stands with students and youth "whether it is Jharkhand, Punjab, Delhi or anywhere else". The BJP, however, targeted the Congress over its stand. Koderma MLA Neera Yadav said, “The Congress puts up one mask when the stir is in Delhi and a different one for Jharkhand."

Rahul Gandhi broke his silence on the Jharkhand student protest, calling for education reforms and urging governments to listen to students as the agitation over alleged recruitment irregularities continued.

Watch: Rahul Gandhi opens up on Jharkhand student protest for first time, says 'every govt must...'

Jammu and Kashmir marked the 7th anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35A under heavy security across the Valley.

While the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) celebrated August 5 as a landmark in Jammu and Kashmir's integration and development, opposition parties including the National Conference (NC) and the People's Democratic Party (PDP) observed the day as a "Black Day", demanding the restoration of statehood and special constitutional status.

Security was tightened across Srinagar, with checkpoints reinforced and restrictions imposed to prevent protests. Opposition leaders accused authorities of denying them the democratic right to demonstrate, while BJP leaders highlighted improvements in security, tourism, and economic activity since 2019.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi described August 5, 2019, as the beginning of a transformative chapter for Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, emphasizing peace, prosperity, and development over the past seven years.


Article 370 Anniversary: BJP Celebrates, Opposition Observes Black Day

Rahul Gandhi recently called supporters of the proposed national delimitation exercise "21st-century Ettappans". He made these remarks on August 1 while addressing the press in Mamallapuram in the southern state of Tamil Nadu. Who was Ettappan and why did India's Leader of Opposition &nbsp;refer to him? What is the context of the delimitation exercise in Tamil Nadu?<h2>What did Rahul Gandhi say about Ettappan?</h2>Rahul Gandhi claimed that the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government's proposed delimitation exercise is designed to reduce the political representation and influence of Tamil Nadu. He warned political parties against supporting the constitutional and legislative changes required to implement the exercise."Anyone who supports delimitation is betraying Tamil Nadu, betraying the future of Tamil Nadu, and allowing the RSS and BJP to attack the people of Tamil Nadu and its future. Such a person is a 21st-century Ettappan," he said, speaking after a training camp for Congress district presidents.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delimitation-designed-to-disenfranchise-tamil-nadu-rahul-gandhi-urges-parties-to-oppose-bill-1785614534303">'Delimitation designed to disenfranchise Tamil Nadu': Rahul Gandhi urges parties to oppose Bill</a><h2>Who was Ettappan?</h2>Ettappan is a reference to Ettappa Nayak, the Raja of Ettayapuram, an 18th-century chieftain in present-day Tamil Nadu. In popular historical memory, he is accused of having aided the British East India Company in capturing the legendary freedom fighter Veerapandiya Kattabomman, although some historians have questioned this portrayal. In Tamil political discourse over the years, the name "Ettappan" has become synonymous with a traitor or betrayer.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/dmk-softens-stance-on-delimitation-bill-1784556748599/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/dmk-softens-stance-on-delimitation-bill-1784556748599/embed</a><h2>Why is the delimitation exercise opposed by some parties in Tamil Nadu?</h2>The delimitation exercise envisages a population-based allocation of seats among the states in Parliament, following the next Census and subject to the constitutional and legislative framework adopted by Parliament. The proposed exercise is opposed by Tamil Nadu's Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), the Congress party, and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam or TVK led by Chief Minister Vijay. Their general argument is that a purely population-based allocation of seats would penalise southern states who had successfully controlled population growth over past decades.The Centre and BJP, however, strongly support the process, arguing it will modernise parliamentary representation by aligning it more closely with population distribution.Read more: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delimitation-bill-explained-why-is-it-triggering-a-north-south-political-battle-in-india-1784620018424">Delimitation Bill explained: Why is it triggering a North-South political battle in India?</a><h2>India's delimitation exercise: Permutations, combinations and doubts</h2>The strength of the Lok Sabha could expand from 543 at present to around 850 seats if and when the delimitation exercise is completed, although the final number will depend on the legislation passed by Parliament. A study by PRS Legislative Research projected that, under one possible redistribution model, Tamil Nadu's share of Lok Sabha seats could fall from the current 39 seats to around 31 or 32 if the total strength of the lower House of Parliament were not expanded proportionately. Northern states such as Uttar Pradesh and Bihar with fast-growing populations would gain additional seats if demographics is the principal criterion.Some other projections cited in the media claim that Tamil Nadu's absolute seat count could increase to about 59 seats. The BJP also maintains that Tamil Nadu's seats will rise under an expanded Lok Sabha rather than shrink.&nbsp;Even if the absolute number of Members of Parliament from Tamil Nadu increases, there is concern in the state that its relative share of seats in the Lok Sabha could decline from the current 7.18 per cent to about 5.88 per cent under some projections. Critics argue that this would reduce the state's proportional influence in national lawmaking, even if its total number of MPs increases.

Rahul Gandhi recently called the supporters of the proposed delimitation exercise “21st-century Ettappans”. The remark revives the Ettappan legacy in Tamil Nadu amid debate over Lok Sabha seat redistribution.



Rahul Gandhi recently called supporters of the proposed national delimitation exercise "21st-century Ettappans". He made these remarks on August 1 while addressing the press in Mamallapuram in the southern state of Tamil Nadu. Who was Ettappan and why did India's Leader of Opposition refer to him? What is the context of the delimitation exercise in Tamil Nadu? What did Rahul Gandhi say about Ettappan? Rahul Gandhi claimed that the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government's proposed delimitation exercise is designed to reduce the political representation and influence of Tamil Nadu. He warned political parties against supporting the constitutional and legislative changes required to implement the exercise. "Anyone who supports delimitation is betraying Tamil Nadu, betraying the future of Tamil Nadu, and allowing the RSS and BJP to attack the people of Tamil Nadu and its future. Such a person is a 21st-century Ettappan," he said, speaking after a training camp for Congress district presidents. Also read: 'Delimitation designed to disenfranchise Tamil Nadu': Rahul Gandhi urges parties to oppose Bill Who was Ettappan? Ettappan is a reference to Ettappa Nayak, the Raja of Ettayapuram, an 18th-century chieftain in present-day Tamil Nadu. In popular historical memory, he is accused of having aided the British East India Company in capturing the legendary freedom fighter Veerapandiya Kattabomman, although some historians have questioned this portrayal. In Tamil political discourse over the years, the name "Ettappan" has become synonymous with a traitor or betrayer. https://www.wionews.com/videos/dmk-softens-stance-on-delimitation-bill-1784556748599/embed Why is the delimitation exercise opposed by some parties in Tamil Nadu? The delimitation exercise envisages a population-based allocation of seats among the states in Parliament, following the next Census and subject to the constitutional and legislative framework adopted by Parliament. The proposed exercise is opposed by Tamil Nadu's Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), the Congress party, and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam or TVK led by Chief Minister Vijay. Their general argument is that a purely population-based allocation of seats would penalise southern states who had successfully controlled population growth over past decades. The Centre and BJP, however, strongly support the process, arguing it will modernise parliamentary representation by aligning it more closely with population distribution. Read more: Delimitation Bill explained: Why is it triggering a North-South political battle in India? India's delimitation exercise: Permutations, combinations and doubts The strength of the Lok Sabha could expand from 543 at present to around 850 seats if and when the delimitation exercise is completed, although the final number will depend on the legislation passed by Parliament. A study by PRS Legislative Research projected that, under one possible redistribution model, Tamil Nadu's share of Lok Sabha seats could fall from the current 39 seats to around 31 or 32 if the total strength of the lower House of Parliament were not expanded proportionately. Northern states such as Uttar Pradesh and Bihar with fast-growing populations would gain additional seats if demographics is the principal criterion. Some other projections cited in the media claim that Tamil Nadu's absolute seat count could increase to about 59 seats. The BJP also maintains that Tamil Nadu's seats will rise under an expanded Lok Sabha rather than shrink. Even if the absolute number of Members of Parliament from Tamil Nadu increases, there is concern in the state that its relative share of seats in the Lok Sabha could decline from the current 7.18 per cent to about 5.88 per cent under some projections. Critics argue that this would reduce the state's proportional influence in national lawmaking, even if its total number of MPs increases.

Rahul Gandhi recently called the supporters of the proposed delimitation exercise “21st-century Ettappans”. The remark revives the Ettappan legacy in Tamil Nadu amid debate over Lok Sabha seat redistribution.&nbsp;

Why did Rahul Gandhi refer to '21st Century Ettappans' while speaking of delimitation exercise?

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