Rahul Gandhi criticized the BJP and the RSS, alleging that they are undermining the Constitution in a clandestine manner. Speaking at India Aghadi’s first campaign meeting in Mumbai, he claimed that many Vice Chancellors across universities are RSS members, suggesting that qualifications in subjects like geography, history, and science are overlooked if one has RSS ties. He also unveiled the “Mahalakshmi Yojana” for women in Maharashtra ahead of the upcoming elections.
Government Overthrown Using Central Agencies
Rahul alleged that the BJP uses central agencies such as the Election Commission, ED, CBI, and the Income Tax Department to destabilize governments, including the former Mahavikas Aghadi government. According to him, this was done to benefit specific businessmen. He claimed that land in Dharavi, worth ₹1 lakh crore, is being seized from the poor. Rahul further alleged that large projects, like those from Apple and Boeing, have been diverted to other states.
Accusations of Land Grabs and Job Losses
He said youth employment is being impacted as valuable land, worth ₹1 lakh crore, is being “grabbed” by the government. Rahul criticized rising fuel and gas prices, claiming that approximately ₹90,000 is taken annually from each household to benefit corporate giants like Adani and Ambani, who, according to him, receive government favors.
Impact of Demonetization and GST
He argued that policies like demonetization and GST are not economic reforms but “weapons” against the people. He criticized GST as an indirect tax that burdens poor and middle-class citizens, while benefiting large corporations. According to him, small and medium-sized businesses, which provide significant employment, have been severely affected by these policies.
Mahalakshmi Yojana
Announcing the Mahalakshmi Yojana, Rahul promised a monthly allowance of ₹3,000 to women in Maharashtra, with free bus travel for women across the state. He stated that this measure is in response to inflation and rising gas prices. Rahul added that more such guarantees would be presented by leaders like Sharad Pawar, Uddhav Thackeray, and Mallikarjun Kharge in the coming days.
