“No One Happy in Congress,” Says Jyotiraditya Scindia; Questions Rahul Gandhi’s Foreign Criticism of India

In a sharp attack on his former party, Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia on Tuesday stated that “no one is happy in Congress today”, pointing to the ongoing leadership crisis, lack of internal democracy, and growing discontent within the party’s ranks. In an exclusive interview with a leading national channel, Scindia also questioned Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s recent statements abroad, asking “Which patriot criticises their own country on foreign soil?”

His remarks come amid continued turmoil in the Congress following its poor performance in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and a string of internal rifts, resignations, and factional infighting in several state units.


Key Highlights from Jyotiraditya Scindia’s Interview

Criticism of Congress Leadership: Scindia claimed Congress is facing a crisis of identity and relevance due to its leadership’s disconnect from grassroots workers and aspirational India.

Attack on Rahul Gandhi’s Foreign Comments: He questioned the appropriateness of Rahul Gandhi’s repeated criticism of India’s democratic status and institutions in his speeches at US and European universities.

Praise for BJP’s Internal Democracy: The minister praised PM Narendra Modi and BJP President J.P. Nadda for their structured leadership and ability to integrate diverse leaders.

Rejection of Return Speculations: When asked if he would ever consider returning to Congress, Scindia said, “Why would I go back to a sinking ship when I’m in a party focused on development and national interest?”


Key Points – Scindia vs Congress

TopicJyotiraditya Scindia’s StatementCongress Position
Leadership crisis“No one is happy; leaders and workers feel ignored.”Claims of internal democracy and restructuring underway
Rahul Gandhi’s foreign criticism“Which patriot attacks India abroad?”Rahul says global forums must know India’s democratic backsliding
Internal democracyPraises BJP for consultative decision-makingCongress says BJP is authoritarian and centralised
Return possibilityRuled out any returnCongress has not commented on Scindia recently

Background: Jyotiraditya Scindia’s Switch from Congress to BJP

  • March 2020: Scindia quit Congress after being sidelined by Madhya Pradesh leadership, leading to the collapse of Kamal Nath’s government.
  • March 2020 onwards: Joined BJP and became Rajya Sabha MP.
  • July 2021: Inducted as Union Civil Aviation Minister in Modi cabinet reshuffle.

Scindia on Congress’ Current State

Scindia said:

“I spent two decades in Congress. It was once a platform of ideas, but today no one is happy – neither senior leaders nor youth workers. The party is hostage to a coterie that ignores grassroots realities.”

He added that Congress had “lost touch with India’s aspirations for growth and modernity.”


Recent High-Profile Exits from Congress (2020-2025)

LeaderYear of ExitNew PartyReason Stated
Jyotiraditya Scindia2020BJPMarginalisation in MP unit
Jitin Prasada2021BJPLack of opportunities in Congress
Amarinder Singh2021BJPInsult from party high command
Ghulam Nabi Azad2022Launched DPAPNo internal democracy
Milind Deora2024Shiv Sena“No future for professionals in Congress”
Sushmita Dev2021TMCBetter regional opportunities

Rahul Gandhi’s Recent Foreign Remarks: The Context

During his June 2025 visit to Europe, Rahul Gandhi criticised the Modi government for:

  • Eroding democratic institutions
  • Suppressing media and judiciary independence
  • Undermining constitutional rights of minorities

Scindia reacted sharply:

“Criticise policies at home, but which patriot questions their nation’s legitimacy abroad? It’s an insult to our democratic mandate.”


Congress’ Defence

Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate defended Rahul Gandhi stating:

“BJP is rattled because Rahul Gandhi is exposing the truth. Patriotism is about upholding constitutional values, not worshipping individuals.”


Expert Opinion

Political analyst Ramesh Rao observed:

“Scindia’s attack is part of BJP’s broader strategy to delegitimise Congress leadership before upcoming state elections. However, his comments reflect the genuine crisis within Congress, particularly after Rahul’s foreign tours.”


BJP’s Reaction

BJP leaders quickly amplified Scindia’s statements on social media. Union Minister Smriti Irani tweeted:

“Jyotiraditya Scindia speaks the truth about Congress’ internal decay and Rahul Gandhi’s unpatriotic remarks.”


Future Political Impact

For Congress

✅ Increased pressure on Rahul Gandhi’s leadership
✅ Risk of further defections if dissatisfaction grows
✅ Dented credibility from leaders like Scindia questioning patriotism

For BJP

✅ Strengthens narrative of Congress disconnect from national sentiment
✅ Showcases former Congress youth icons supporting Modi
✅ Potential electoral gains in Madhya Pradesh, where Scindia remains influential


Table: Jyotiraditya Scindia’s Political Profile

ParameterDetails
Age54
ConstituencyGuna (lost in 2019)
Current roleUnion Civil Aviation Minister
Political legacySon of Madhavrao Scindia, Congress stalwart
Party switchCongress to BJP in March 2020
InfluenceStrong among Gwalior-Chambal region voters

Scindia’s Closing Remarks

On his vision for Indian politics, Scindia said:

“People want results, development, and honesty. They reject negative politics. It is time leaders focus on solutions, not constant criticism.”


Conclusion

Jyotiraditya Scindia’s blistering critique highlights the deepening crisis within Congress as it struggles to revive after consecutive electoral defeats. His rejection of Rahul Gandhi’s foreign criticism taps into nationalist sentiments, giving BJP ammunition ahead of key state polls. For Congress, this episode underscores the urgent need for internal reforms, leadership clarity, and a strategy to counter the growing perception of irrelevance among even its former loyalists.


Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Readers are advised to follow official interviews, party press conferences, and parliamentary records for verified updates on political statements and positions.

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