New Delhi:
Union Education Minister and senior BJP leader Dharmendra Pradhan has said that Rahul Gandhi’s image as a “not suitable” leader is not created by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), but is rather a direct consequence of the Congress party’s performance and legacy over the years.
Speaking to the media during an election-related press interaction, Pradhan stated that the people of India have formed their own view of Rahul Gandhi based on the Congress party’s rule, which according to him was marked by misgovernance, lack of vision, and poor leadership. “The image that Rahul Gandhi is not a capable leader is not a narrative manufactured by us. It is rooted in how the Congress governed the country and how Rahul Gandhi himself has conducted politics,” Pradhan said.
The minister further emphasized that Rahul Gandhi’s repeated attempts to project himself as a national alternative have failed due to inconsistencies in leadership and lack of clarity in policy positions. He said that public trust must be earned through action, responsibility, and a clear national vision, not just through slogans and social media campaigns.
“Rahul Gandhi speaks of reforms and transparency, but the Congress’ record in power shows a different reality. From corruption scandals to policy paralysis, the UPA years made people question the credibility of Congress leadership,” Pradhan added. He also criticized Gandhi’s remarks made during international visits, calling them attempts to undermine India’s institutions.
The BJP leader went on to say that it is not the ruling party’s job to diminish Gandhi’s stature. “The people of India are watching. They have the wisdom to judge leaders. We are focused on development, governance, and national security. The opposition should introspect rather than blame others for their declining influence,” he said.
Pradhan also took a jibe at the Congress party’s internal struggles, noting that senior leaders continue to exit the party due to dissatisfaction with the leadership. “When your own house is not in order, how can you expect the country to place trust in you?” he asked.
Responding to questions about the ongoing Lok Sabha campaign, Pradhan said that the BJP is confident about its outreach and the support it is receiving from the public across states. “Our government’s track record in the past decade stands on its own merit. From economic reforms to infrastructure development, we are delivering on the people’s expectations,” he concluded.
Rahul Gandhi and the Congress party have not yet responded directly to Pradhan’s comments, though party representatives continue to assert that the BJP is engaging in personal attacks to divert attention from core public issues.
The exchange highlights the growing tension between the two national parties as the election atmosphere intensifies and leaders trade strong political remarks to influence public perception.
