Union Home Minister Amit Shah delivered a sharp critique of Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Sunday, stating that a political party cannot expect to win votes if it consistently opposes initiatives that resonate with the public. The remarks were made during a public event in Ahmedabad where Shah inaugurated several development projects.
Shah's Direct Challenge to Gandhi
Addressing a gathering, Shah pointedly responded to a question Gandhi had posed during a recent Lok Sabha debate. "Instead of asking people, he asked me. Rahul Baba, you will get the answer if you understand these two initiatives that I have launched here," Shah stated, referring to development projects in Ahmedabad.
He accused the Congress leader of focusing on the wrong priorities. "Rahul Gandhi, rather than understanding this, is trying to decode the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) which is not his job," Shah asserted. He further predicted a continued losing streak for the opposition party, claiming, "Rahul Baba do not get tired of losing, you will lose in Bengal and Tamil Nadu. In 2029, the BJP under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership will form the government again."
Listing Congress's 'Opposition' to Popular Moves
Shah elaborated on his argument by listing a series of actions by the BJP-led government that he claimed were widely appreciated but opposed by the Congress. "We built Ram Mandir but you (Congress) protested and you protested surgical strike on Pakistan, air strike, removing Bangladeshi infiltrators, new temple of Kashi, Article 370 abrogation, Act against triple talaq and Uniform Civil Code," he said.
He questioned the electoral logic of such a stance. "How will you get votes if you oppose what people like? But, it is beyond my capacity to make Rahul Baba understand such a simple logic because even people from the Congress have failed to make him understand it," Shah concluded.
Rs 330 Crore Development Projects Inaugurated
The event was held at Nava Vanzar village in Ahmedabad, where Shah distributed ownership certificates to 173 beneficiaries rehabilitated after the 1973 Sabarmati flood tragedy. He described the moment as "extremely historic and emotional" for the families who waited 50 years for land rights.
Shah also inaugurated the Western Trunk Main Line Project, a crucial sewage disposal system for Ahmedabad's western and south-western regions. Built at an estimated cost of around Rs 400 crore, the project aims to provide a permanent solution to drainage problems for nearly 15 lakh citizens across areas including Gota, Chandlodia, Science City, and South Bopal.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, who also spoke, announced that the state's urban development budget has been increased by 40 per cent to Rs 30,000 crore.
Namotsav: A Multimedia Tribute to PM Modi
Later in the evening, Shah inaugurated "Namotsav," a mega musical multimedia show based on the life of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, at Sanskar Dham in Ghuma. The three-day event features 150 artists.
In his address, Shah framed the show as more than mere entertainment. "Namotsav is not just a cultural programme, but a journey of India’s self confidence, resolve and values," he said, according to an official release. He praised PM Modi as an "extraordinary personality" who has been honored with the highest civilian awards by 29 countries.
The Home Minister's day in Ahmedabad also included addressing the Patidar community at Vishv Umiya Dham, where he launched a business network mobile app for young entrepreneurs, highlighting the community's role in India's growth.
