In a scathing critique during her first election rallies in Gujarat and Maharashtra, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Congress’s national general secretary, accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of misleading the public and displaying excessive arrogance. Vadra’s allegations centered around Modi’s supposed fear and lack of confidence, which she claims lead him to falsify the intentions of the Congress party, particularly regarding taxation.
In Gujarat: Vadra claimed that Modi falsely accused Congress of planning to impose a burdensome inheritance tax that would strip citizens of more than half of their earnings. She suggested that such assertions were rooted in Modi’s insecurity, especially as elections approach. Furthermore, she raised concerns about the BJP’s intentions towards the Constitution. According to her, BJP leaders have hinted at major amendments if they secure over 400 seats, a claim she said Modi publicly denies. “Be warned,” she cautioned, indicating that such changes could very well occur if BJP returns to power.
In Maharashtra: Shifting her focus to Modi’s demeanor, Vadra described him as arrogant, a trait she argues has grown since he took office. This arrogance, she suggested, has isolated him from genuine public feedback and has led him to disregard advice from even his closest advisors. Vadra reminisced about her times with Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi, noting their openness to public interaction and accountability—qualities she finds lacking in Modi. She described a scenario where Modi prefers ceremonial appearances over direct engagements with the public, a practice that she argued diminishes the essence of democratic leadership.
Vadra’s accusations are aimed at painting a contrast between Modi’s leadership style and the more inclusive, democratic approach she attributes to her own party’s legacy. By highlighting these points, she is not only critiquing Modi’s policies and persona but also positioning Congress as a preferable alternative that values transparency and public engagement. This approach to her rallies indicates a strategic effort to reconnect with voters and shift the narrative ahead of crucial elections.
