Rahul Gandhi addresses Indian Diaspora: “India is a union of states”

Washington D C : During a major address to the Indian Diaspora in Washington D C, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi emphasized the importance of India’s unity amidst its diversity. Gandhi touched upon various social, political, and economic issues, including challenges faced by the Congress Party during the 2024 elections and the ideological battle between the Congress and the BJP.

The fight against fear and control

In his speech, Rahul Gandhi remarked on the fear spread by the BJP through various institutions and agencies, including the media, and how this fear has now dissipated following the election results. “People come up to me in Delhi and say, ‘We are no longer afraid,'” Gandhi noted, referencing the drastic change in public sentiment.

He went on to explain how, despite efforts by the BJP to control the narrative, including freezing Congress Party’s bank accounts three months before the elections, the Congress fought back with resilience. “We fought the election with spirit despite having no funds,” he stated.

Unity amidst diversity: Congress vs BJP’s ideology

Rahul Gandhi stressed the importance of India’s identity as a union of states. He argued that the BJP and its ideological parent, the RSS, promote a divisive view that places certain states, languages, and religions above others. “This is what the fight is about,” Gandhi said, emphasizing the need to respect all cultures, languages, and traditions.

He likened India to a thali (platter) that encompasses diverse dishes, symbolizing the unity of its different regions and cultures. “In India, everything comes together on one plate. You get everything—rice, dal, sabzi—on the same thali. That’s India,” he said, countering the BJP’s divisive rhetoric.

Role of the Indian Diaspora

Gandhi also acknowledged the role of the Indian Diaspora in bridging the gap between India and the United States, urging them to spread love, not hatred. He praised their contributions and successful integration into American society, while also maintaining strong ties to India. “You are our ambassadors,” he said, encouraging them to take American values back to India and bring Indian traditions to the U.S.

In conclusion, Gandhi expressed his appreciation for the Diaspora’s support and underscored the need for humility and respect in India’s political discourse. His address was met with applause as he reiterated Congress’s commitment to preserving India’s pluralistic ethos.