In a fervent rebuke directed at Rahul Gandhi for his recent assertion labeling Rajas and Maharajas as "land grabbers," Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a scathing critique on Sunday, accusing the Congress leader of indulging in appeasement politics while conveniently overlooking the atrocities perpetrated by historical figures like Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, who ravaged hundreds of temples.
Addressing a mammoth crowd in Belagavi, Karnataka, PM Modi expressed disdain for what he perceived as Congress' attempt at pandering through carefully worded statements. "The Congress' shehzada implies that the rulers of India were despots who usurped land from the impoverished. Such remarks insult stalwarts like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Kittur Rani Chennamma, whose governance and patriotism continue to inspire us," he remarked emphatically.
PM Modi pointed out the selective amnesia of the Congress, highlighting the omission of the brutalities inflicted by nizams, nawabs, and sultans from Indian history. "While they mention Rajas and Maharajas, they conveniently ignore the heinous acts committed by rulers like Aurangzeb, who razed numerous temples," he asserted.
Emphasizing the Congress' penchant for appeasement, PM Modi underscored its manifestation in the party's manifesto. "Would Banaras Hindu University have existed without the patronage of its king? Did Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar not undertake the restoration of temples and safeguard our sacred sites? These were visionary monarchs who recognized the potential of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar and facilitated his education abroad. Yet, the Congress chooses to overlook their contributions," he lamented.
PM Modi lambasted the Congress for its propensity to oppose every developmental initiative undertaken by India. He criticized the party's stance on HAL, its resistance to the Made in India Covid vaccine, and its attempts to tarnish India's democratic reputation globally under the guise of EVM controversies, a move that was rebuffed by the Supreme Court. "Congress leaders who propagated falsehoods regarding EVMs owe an apology to the nation," PM Modi proclaimed, to the resounding applause of the assembled multitude.
