Amit Shah Condemns Congress Over AI Summit Protest, Accuses Rahul Gandhi of Defaming India
Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched a scathing attack on the Congress party during a rally in Guwahati on Sunday, accusing the opposition of "defaming" India through its actions at the recent AI Impact Summit in New Delhi. Shah specifically targeted Congress MP and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, claiming he has "started opposing India" in his political opposition to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP.
Shah's Criticism of Congress Youth Wing Protest
The home minister referenced the controversial protest by Congress youth wing members who staged a shirtless demonstration at the AI Summit last month. "Congress has tried to defame the country by removing clothes at the AI Summit," Shah asserted. "We were also in opposition, but there's a place for it. You made the summit a platform for personal politics, while the whole world gathered to see India and invest in India."
Shah expressed particular disappointment that instead of apologizing for the protest, Rahul Gandhi had praised the participating Youth Congress workers as "lion-hearted," a stance the home minister described as "irresponsible."
Broader Accusations Against Congress Leadership
The senior BJP leader challenged the Congress to oppose his party vigorously through proper parliamentary channels but criticized their demonstration for what he called "narrowing the possibilities of Indian youth on a global platform."
"He (Gandhi) is defaming India and its democracy in front of the world," Shah declared. "You can oppose us with all your might, but you run away in Parliament. When the world comes to see India's youth strength, you are narrowing their possibilities. India's public will not forgive you."
Healthcare Achievements in Assam Praised
Shifting focus to developmental matters, Shah praised Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for transforming the state's healthcare infrastructure and making Assam "self-sufficient" in medical services.
"He wants Assam to be a state where no patient has to go outside for treatment," Shah explained. "Patients who previously travelled to Chennai, Mumbai, Karnataka, and Delhi for cancer treatment will now receive care closer to home."
New Medical Facilities Inaugurated
During his visit, the home minister inaugurated several significant healthcare projects:
- The newly constructed Pragjyotishpur Medical College & Hospital in Guwahati
- Cancer treatment centers in Golaghat and Tinsukia
Additionally, Shah virtually laid foundation stones for multiple healthcare infrastructure projects:
- Super-speciality hospitals at Diphu, Jorhat, and Barpeta Medical College & Hospitals
- The Swasthya Bhawan administrative complex
- The Abhayapuri District Hospital
Political Context and Upcoming Elections
The developments come as the Election Commission of India prepares to announce the schedule for Assam assembly elections. The BJP has maintained power in the state since 2016 when it first formed the government in Assam. Shah's remarks and project inaugurations are viewed as significant political messaging ahead of the upcoming electoral contest.
The home minister's dual focus on criticizing opposition tactics while highlighting government achievements in healthcare development represents a comprehensive political strategy addressing both national political discourse and regional development priorities.
