Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has asserted that the Opposition’s strong unity and an unseen undercurrent were poised to “surprise” the people in the upcoming general elections in India.
Rahul was speaking at a media interaction on Thursday at the National Press Club in the United States, where he is currently on a three-city tour.
“I strongly believe that the Congress party will perform exceptionally well in the next two years.” He added, “I sense the emergence of a hidden undercurrent...something that will catch people by surprise.”
Citing the recent outcome of the Karnataka Assembly elections, where Congress achieved a comfortable majority and ousted the BJP from power, Rahul pointed out the importance of observing the results of the next three or four State elections.
He emphasised that these upcoming contests serve as a better indicator of the future political landscape.
In response to a question about the unity of the Opposition in India, Rahul confirmed their strong alliance.
“The Opposition in India is quite well united, and I see this unity growing stronger with time. We are engaging in constructive conversations with all Opposition parties, and there is considerable progress being made,” he stated.
However, he acknowledged the complexities that arise from competing with other Opposition parties, requiring some negotiation and compromise.
Nonetheless, Rahul expressed confidence in overcoming these challenges.
During the interaction, Rahul also addressed a range of topics, including press and religious freedoms in India, issues faced by minorities, and the State of the economy.
When questioned about Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s high global popularity, Rahul expressed his concerns about the capture of institutions and the press in India, indicating that he approached such information with caution.
Regarding the protection of minority rights in India, Rahul emphasised the importance of a robust and independent institutional framework.
While acknowledging India’s existing strong system, he pointed out its weakened State and highlighted the need for independent institutions that are not subject to pressure or control.
Rahul stated that this situation is an aberration in India, and if the Congress party were to come to power, they would swiftly restore and strengthen these institutions.
Furthermore, Rahul stressed the criticality of press freedom for a thriving democracy, noting that it encompasses not only media liberties but also political access and the institutional framework that facilitates dialogue and negotiation among the Indian people.
He expressed concerns about the growing pressure on this structure.
Regarding US-India relations, Rahul emphasised their significance and described the relationship between the two countries as “very, very important.”
While highlighting the importance of a strong defense partnership, he also advocated for considering cooperation in other areas.
Rahul’s statements reflect his optimistic outlook on the unity of the Opposition and their potential to bring about surprising results in the 2024 elections. He also addressed various challenges faced by India, such as the capture of institutions, weakening press freedom, and the need to protect minority rights.
