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Rahul Gandhi: Congress Member of Parliament Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday launched a strong critique of the ruling establishment, accusing the Bharatiya Janata Party and its ideological mentor of weakening the foundational spirit of India’s Constitution. Speaking during his visit to Raebareli, he asserted that the principles envisioned by the framers of the Constitution were under serious threat and that democratic values were being steadily eroded.

Allegations of Constitutional Dilution

Addressing party officials and grassroots workers at the Bhuemau Guest House, Rahul Gandhi alleged that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and the Bharatiya Janata Party were attempting to dilute constitutional safeguards. According to him, these efforts were aimed at centralising power and weakening institutions that protect the rights of ordinary citizens. He emphasized that the Constitution was not merely a legal document but a living framework that ensures equality, justice, and dignity for all.

Comparison With Pre-Independence Conditions

Rahul Gandhi drew a parallel between the present situation and the era before Independence, claiming that common people were once again facing the loss of land, rights, and entitlements. He argued that policies pursued by the central government were creating conditions where marginalized communities felt increasingly insecure. By invoking historical memory, he sought to underline the seriousness of what he described as a systematic rollback of people’s rights.

Claims of Economic Inequality

Highlighting economic concerns, Gandhi alleged that land was being acquired from farmers and rural communities, while welfare funds were being diverted to large industrial groups. He maintained that such practices widened the gap between the rich and the poor and weakened social cohesion. According to him, public resources meant for welfare schemes should prioritize those at the bottom of the economic pyramid rather than corporate interests.

Call for Courage Among Party Workers

Urging Congress workers to remain fearless, Rahul Gandhi said that intimidation and pressure should not deter them from raising issues affecting laborers and the poor. He reaffirmed that the Indian National Congress stood firmly with workers, farmers, and disadvantaged communities. He described the current policies as anti-people and asserted that sustained political resistance was essential to protect democratic rights.

Focus on Rural Employment and Panchayat Empowerment

A significant portion of Gandhi’s address focused on the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act. He explained that when the scheme was introduced under a Congress-led government, its objective was to empower local self-governments by giving panchayats both responsibility and financial autonomy. The guarantee of minimum wages and timely employment, he said, was designed to provide dignity and security to rural households.

Criticism of Centralisation and Renaming Practices

Rahul Gandhi accused the present administration of undermining the employment guarantee programme by centralising authority and reducing its effectiveness. He argued that merely renaming schemes without strengthening their core objectives amounted to symbolic politics. In his view, the real concern was the erosion of workers’ rights and the weakening of protective mechanisms that ensured livelihood security.

Save MGNREGA Campaign in Raebareli

As part of his nationwide outreach, Gandhi announced that he had personally taken responsibility for the Save MGNREGA Campaign in Raebareli. During his visit to Umran village in the Unchahar Assembly constituency, he interacted directly with rural workers and villagers. Many complained about delays in receiving work and wages, highlighting administrative lapses that affected their daily survival.

Assertion of Workers’ Rights

Addressing these grievances, Rahul Gandhi stated that MGNREGA was not just a welfare initiative but a symbol of the dignity and rights of poor laborers. He pledged that the Congress would continue to fight across the country to protect the programme and ensure accountability. According to him, safeguarding employment rights was essential for social stability and inclusive growth.

Development Projects and Community Engagement

During his Raebareli visit, Gandhi inaugurated 31 development projects under the Member of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme and laid the foundation stone for eight new initiatives. These projects were aimed at improving local infrastructure and public amenities. He also inaugurated the Raebareli Premier League T-20 cricket tournament at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium, interacting with players and encouraging young sporting talent from the region.

Political Outreach and Local Interactions

Later in the day, Rahul Gandhi visited the residence of Municipal Chairman Shatrughan Sonkar, where he discussed civic and regional issues. The meeting was widely seen as politically significant, reflecting efforts to strengthen local alliances and address grassroots concerns ahead of future electoral challenges.