‘Ideology of cowards’: Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on BJP–RSS ideology in Belagavi

At the 'Jai Bapu, Jai Bhim, Jai Samvidhan' rally in Karnataka, Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra launched a blistering attack on the BJP–RSS ideology, contrasting it with the Congress' commitment to Constitutional values and social justice.

Highlighting ideological differences, she declared, "Our ideology is not the ideology of cowards like RSS–BJP. Our ideology is the Constitution, and we are ready to die to protect democracy and provide justice and equality to the people."

Priyanka Gandhi traced the Congress' lineage to the freedom struggle, emphasising the party’s legacy of sacrifice and commitment. “Our tradition is the tradition of martyrs, not of people writing letters from jail,” she remarked in a pointed jibe at the RSS.

She accused the BJP of continuing the RSS’ historical disdain for the Constitution and its lead architect, Dr B.R. Ambedkar. “When all our compatriots were fighting for freedom, another ideology was emerging that insulted the Constitution and opposed Babasaheb's vision for women's rights.

“RSS members burned effigies of Ambedkar-ji. This same ideology has given birth to the BJP, which today openly disrespects our Constitution and Babasaheb,” she charged.

Calling Ambedkar the ‘Messiah of the Dalit’, Gandhi Vadra underscored the significance of the Constitution as a protective shield for every citizen.

“Babasaheb Ambedkar gave us the Constitution, securing democracy and empowering citizens with rights such as justice, equality and the right to vote. He is a symbol of social justice and rights,” she affirmed.

“The Modi government is afraid of Rahul Gandhi. My elder brother Rahul fights for the Constitution every day. He is ready to sacrifice his life for it. When Rahul Gandhi raises your voice in Parliament, then the Modi government tries to adjourn Parliament because it is afraid of him," said Priyanka.

Rahul Gandhi, who was also expected to be at the rally, was not able attend due to illness.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge was present, however, and also addressed the rally, emphasising the stark contrast between the Congress’ and the BJP's track records. He recalled India’s unprecedented economic growth under the last Congress prime minister, the late Manmohan Singh, citing an average GDP growth of 7.8 per cent between 2004 and 2014.

Kharge outlined key legislative achievements during the Congress-led governments, including the RTI Act (2005), MGNREGA (2005), Forest Rights Act (2006), RTE Act (2009), National Food Security Act (2013) and the Land Acquisition Act (2013).

“These laws reflect the Congress’ dedication to empowering citizens and ensuring justice for marginalised communities,” he stated.

Kharge again reiterated the opposition’s outrage over union home minister Amit Shah’s disrespect for Ambedkar. He also reiterated the Congress’ demand for Amit Shah's resignation.

"Amit Shah insulted Babasaheb in Parliament and said, ‘If someone had taken the name of God so much, they would have gone to heaven in seven lives.’ We all protested against this insult and staged a sit-in against Amit Shah and demanded his resignation. Our demand even today is that Amit Shah must resign from his post," said Kharge.

With a clear focus on safeguarding democracy and protecting the rights of marginalised communities, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s speech set the tone for the Congress’ nation wide campaign, sharpening the ideological battle lines with the BJP.

The rally, rooted in the themes of justice, equality and Constitutional values, marked a strong offensive by the Congress against the BJP's Hindutva agenda.

The public meeting was originally planned for 27 December 2024, but was postponed due to the passing of former prime minister Manmohan Singh. Now, with Republic Day around the corner and the Delhi assembly elections in the offing, the party’s renewed dedication to the stated values takes on added importance.