HUBBALLI, Oct 3 : Union Minister Pralhad Joshi today said that Rahul Gandhi’s relentless criticism does not signal weakness in India’s democracy, it proves its resilience.
“He (Rahul Gandhi) is speaking so much that it itself proves the existence of democracy,” Joshi told reporters, cutting through the rhetoric with pointed clarity.
“During the Emergency, people had no idea what used to happen. Speak a single word against the government and you are immediately arrested,” he said. “Today, people speak day in and day out against the government without any basis, yet some still claim democracy is under threat. That is sheer hypocrisy,” he added.
Joshi continued, “If you are not empowered, democracy feels unsafe; if you are in power, democracy is safe. This is nonsense.” He also criticised Gandhi for blaming institutions and “insulting India” after failing to convince the people.
During a seminar at EIA University in Medell?n, Colombia, Gandhi had said that the “single biggest risk” to India is the “wholesale attack on democracy.” He praised India’s diversity and decentralised governance, contrasting it with China’s centralised model, and warned that India’s democratic framework is under threat.
Responding sharply, Joshi said, “It is most unfortunate that in the world’s largest and most vibrant democracy, anyone who fails to persuade the people resorts to blaming the entire system. Specifically, regarding the intensive region, the Supreme Court has already given an interim judgement, yet some are alleging attacks on institutions. If you cannot convince the people, blaming institutions and belittling India is unacceptable.”
Former union Minister Bhagwanth Khuba also weighed in, sharply criticising Rahul Gandhi. He said, “Rahul Gandhi’s continuous electoral losses, his being surrounded by anti-national forces, and his anti-India statements have led to widespread criticism and calls for a boycott.”
“Repeated failures in domestic elections have left him flustered, and his capacity for clear thinking seems to have faltered. Anti-national elements and urban Naxal forces have fully encircled him. This is why he makes shameful statements on foreign soil, speaking against India and its institutions,” he added.
Khuba appealed to citizens to reject these objectionable statements and boycott Rahul Gandhi. “I pray to God that Rahul Gandhi speaks with goodwill towards the nation and shows respect for India’s government and institutions,” he added.
(UNI(
Follow our WhatsApp channel
