Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has sparked a political storm with his recent claim that some Congress leaders and workers in Gujarat are covertly working for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Speaking during his Gujarat visit, aimed at preparing for the 2027 Assembly elections, Gandhi accused 30-40 party members of aligning with the BJP and warned of strict action, including potential expulsions.
Rahul Gandhi’s Statement
“There are two types of people in the Gujarat Congress leadership and among workers,” Gandhi said. “Those who are honest with people, fight for them, and uphold the Congress ideology, and others who are disconnected from the people and half of whom are with the BJP.” He emphasized the need to filter out the latter group to rebuild the party’s connection with the people of Gujarat.
Digvijaya Singh’s Reaction
Former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Digvijaya Singh supported Gandhi’s remarks but questioned when action would be taken against BJP supporters within the Congress. Singh also criticized the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), stating, “The Sangh does not represent Hindus. It misleads and exploits Hindus in the name of religion.” He further called on Gandhi to expel BJP sympathizers from the party.
BJP’s Response
The BJP seized the opportunity to mock Gandhi, with spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla calling him the “biggest asset” for the BJP in Gujarat. “Rahul Gandhi brutally trolled his own party and showed himself the mirror,” Poonawalla said, adding that Gandhi’s leadership has led to over 90 election losses for Congress.
Political Implications
Gandhi’s remarks have reignited internal debates within Congress about loyalty and party discipline. As Congress prepares for the 2027 Gujarat Assembly elections, the party faces the dual challenge of addressing internal dissent and countering BJP’s dominance in the state.
This development underscores the ongoing struggles within Congress to maintain unity and relevance in key states, as well as the broader political dynamics shaping India’s opposition landscape.
