In a forceful critique, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi accused the BJP on Friday of fueling division and unrest across India, specifically blaming the party for “burning Manipur” and inciting religious discord to fracture the nation.

Addressing an election rally in Lohardaga, Jharkhand, Gandhi alleged that the BJP’s agenda is to pit communities—Hindus, Muslims, Christians, and Sikhs—against one another for political gain. He also condemned what he described as the party’s efforts to divide the nation along caste lines, citing the recent Haryana elections where he claimed BJP sought to incite Jats against non-Jats.

“Spreading Love Against Hate”: Gandhi’s Nationwide Padyatra

Gandhi also highlighted his recent 4,000-kilometer “Bharat Jodo Yatra” from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, calling it a mission to "spread love in the marketplace of hate." The Congress leader has consistently portrayed his journey as an effort to bridge divides and promote unity across communities. "When I raise my voice for tribals, Dalits, and OBCs, the BJP accuses me of dividing India," he asserted. "But I am here to unite and to ensure that those who have been sidelined receive their fair share."

The Congress leader claimed that his advocacy stands for the 90% of India's population that includes tribals, Dalits, and OBCs. He emphasized that if his commitment to marginalized communities is viewed as divisive, he would “proudly continue” his efforts, promising to be the voice of those who feel excluded from governance and economic growth.

Accusations of Economic Exclusion

Gandhi didn’t limit his critique to social issues; he also charged that BJP’s policies have deprived 90% of India’s population of economic rights. He alleged that the BJP’s focus on "benefiting a select few" has widened the wealth gap, leaving rural and working-class communities with fewer opportunities. His pledge to champion economic equity resonated with the crowd, underscoring his commitment to policies centered on public welfare and inclusion.

The Battle for India’s Soul: Gandhi vs. BJP’s Vision

Gandhi’s comments come amid intensifying political competition as the nation heads toward crucial state elections. His remarks on BJP's alleged “divide and rule” policy mark a broader debate over India’s social fabric, with Gandhi positioning himself as a unifier in contrast to what he describes as the BJP’s divisive tactics.

“A Shop of Love in a Market of Hate”: India’s Path Forward

The Congress leader’s message of “opening shops of love in a market of hate” has struck a chord with many who believe that India's unity is at risk. Gandhi’s rally call aims to rekindle communal harmony in a nation that has historically prided itself on “unity in diversity.”

As the country watches this unfolding political battle, Gandhi’s rallying cry offers a powerful counter-narrative, promising an inclusive India while challenging what he calls the BJP’s politics of division. The stage is set for a contest over the soul of India, where Gandhi’s message of unity faces off against the ruling party's vision for the nation’s future.