PM Modi Targets Congress in Scathing Akola Rally, Highlights Unity, National Security, and Development

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, November 9, 2024, Kolkata: In a high-energy election rally in Akola, Maharashtra, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a fierce attack on the Congress party, accusing it of corruption, divisive politics, and undermining national unity. Addressing a crowd of supporters ahead of the Maharashtra Assembly elections scheduled for November 20, Modi invoked the slogan "Ek Hai To Safe Hai" (United We Are Safe), urging voters to stand firm against those who seek to divide the nation for political gain.

Modi also reflected on a significant milestone in Indian history, marking the fifth anniversary of the Supreme Court's historic ruling on the Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya. The Supreme Court's decision in November 2019 paved the way for the construction of the Ram Mandir, a topic that had been the center of debate for decades. "The verdict was a historic moment for India, and it was embraced with sensitivity by people from all religions," Modi said, emphasizing the unity that followed the ruling.

The Prime Minister reiterated his government's commitment to putting nation first, quoting his often-used slogan, "Desh Pehle, Sabse Pehle" (Nation First, Above All). He stressed that the strength of India lies in its unity and patriotism, calling for the country to rise above any divisive forces. "India's biggest strength is 'Desi First,' meaning 'Nation First.' We are not just talking about protecting India's borders but about ensuring unity among all its people," Modi asserted.

Modi also took pride in the achievements of his government over the last decade. "In the two terms of our government, we have built over 4 crore houses for the poor, ensuring that every Indian has a roof over their head," he said, listing this as one of the key successes of his administration. His remarks highlighted the BJP’s emphasis on inclusive development as a core pillar of its political agenda.

The Prime Minister also sought the support of the people for the Mahayuti alliance in the Maharashtra Assembly elections, claiming that he had come to seek the "blessings of the people" for the upcoming polls. He expressed his gratitude for the "special blessings" he had received from the citizens of Maharashtra, acknowledging the state's continued support for the BJP-led alliance.

Modi’s speech took a direct aim at the Congress party and the Gandhi family, accusing them of using government positions for personal gain. "Wherever Congress has been in power, it has become an ATM for the Shahi family," Modi charged, implying that the party was being controlled by the Gandhi family for their own interests.

In a sharp challenge to the Congress leadership, he questioned whether any member of the Gandhi family had ever visited the Panchatirtha, five key places associated with Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of India’s Constitution and a symbol of empowerment for the marginalized communities in India. The Panchatirtha includes:

Maho, Ambedkar’s birthplace in Madhya Pradesh.

London, where Ambedkar pursued higher education at the London School of Economics.

Diksha Bhoomi, in Nagpur, where Ambedkar embraced Buddhism in 1956.

Mahaparinirvana Sthala, in Delhi, where Ambedkar passed away.

Chaityabhoomi, in Mumbai, the place where he was cremated.

"Has any member of the Shahi family of Congress ever visited these sacred sites? These places represent the very essence of Dr. Ambedkar's struggle for social justice. Congress should be ashamed of its neglect," Modi said, highlighting the party’s alleged disregard for the legacy of the Dalit icon.

Modi further accused Congress of trying to sow divisions among India’s backward classes. "Congress never wants the SC, ST, and OBC communities to stay united. They thrive on creating caste-based conflicts for their political gains," the Prime Minister said, warning the electorate of the dangers of falling into such divisive traps.

He went on to say that the Congress party’s ultimate goal was to weaken the SC community, urging the people of Maharashtra to be aware of this "dangerous game." He called on voters to reject the Congress’ attempts to divide the people based on caste and social status, advocating instead for unity and progress. "A divided society will never thrive, and Congress knows this very well. They want a weak India, because they only benefit when the country is divided," Modi said.

In a strong message regarding national security, Modi reiterated that Article 370, which grants special status to Jammu and Kashmir, would never be reinstated under his government. "Congress wants to bring back Article 370 and undo the historic changes we made in Jammu and Kashmir. But let me make it clear: That will never happen," Modi declared, reaffirming his government's decision to abrogate Article 370 in August 2019 and fully integrate Jammu and Kashmir with India.

Modi’s statement came as part of his broader message that the Congress party has always been at odds with the national interest. "They don’t want a strong nation; they only want to strengthen their own political grip by creating conflict among our people," he added, urging citizens to vote for a government that prioritized national unity and security.

As he wrapped up his speech, Modi expressed confidence in the BJP's prospects in the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections. He credited the BJP's success in the state to the political awareness, patriotism, and the hunger for development among the people of Maharashtra. "From 2014 to 2024, the people of Maharashtra have consistently supported the BJP because they know the party is committed to their welfare," he said.

With the elections fast approaching, Modi’s speech not only sought to rally support for the Mahayuti alliance but also served as a reminder to voters of the ideological divide between the BJP and Congress. The rally, which was attended by thousands of enthusiastic supporters, marked a key moment in the election campaign as both parties gear up for a fierce contest in the state.

In the days leading up to the November 20 elections, Modi’s words will undoubtedly continue to resonate, shaping the political discourse in Maharashtra as voters weigh their choices between the ruling BJP-led alliance and the opposition Congress-NCP combine.