During an address to the Indian diaspora in Texas, Congress leader Sam Pitroda emphasized that Rahul Gandhi’s vision starkly contrasts with the ideologies promoted by the BJP. He dismissed the portrayal of Gandhi as “Pappu,” stressing that Gandhi is highly educated, well-read, and a strategic thinker.
“He (Rahul Gandhi) has a vision contrary to what BJP promotes by spending crores of rupees. I must tell you, he is no Pappu. He is highly educated, well-read, a strategist with deep thinking on any subject and sometimes it is not very easy to understand him,” Pitroda said.
#WATCH | Texas, USA: Chairman of Indian Overseas Congress, Sam Pitroda says, "…Rahul Gandhi's agenda is to address some of the larger issues, he has a vision contrary to what BJP promotes by spending crore and crore of rupees. I must tell you he is not 'Pappu', he is highly… pic.twitter.com/28zgNI6BQj
— ANI (@ANI) September 9, 2024
Pitroda, who chairs the Indian Overseas Congress (IOC), highlighted the influence of Gandhian values, inclusion, and diversity on his own upbringing, and expressed concern over societal changes that threaten these principles.
“Growing up in the early fifties, Gandhian thoughts were central to our education. Inclusion and diversity were not just words – they were our way of life. When I see shifts in society that challenge this basic fabric, I worry. Rahul Gandhi champions these values, advocating respect for all people regardless of race, religion, or language. His focus is on providing equal opportunities and dignity to labor, which makes me very happy,” he said.
Pitroda elaborated that Rahul Gandhi’s focus is on celebrating diversity and fostering inclusivity, both of which have been long-standing issues in India.
“Rahul Gandhi’s agenda is centered on inclusion and the celebration of diversity, something we have been working on for a long time but haven’t fully addressed,” he added.
He also pointed out that democracy is complex and cannot be taken for granted, noting that it requires constant effort from a large number of people. Pitroda warned against those seeking to undermine democratic values and highlighted the vision of India’s independence leaders, such as Gandhi, Nehru, and Sardar Patel, who were clear about the kind of nation they wanted to build.
“Democracy requires work from many people like us. We can’t take it for granted because there are those focused on hijacking it. At the time of independence, leaders like Gandhi, Nehru, Maulana Azad, Sardar Patel, and Subhash Chandra Bose had a clear vision of what a free India would offer in terms of opportunities. We need to continue working to protect those ideals,” Pitroda said.
He encouraged the Indian diaspora to join the Indian Overseas Congress and increase participation in efforts to safeguard democracy. He also mentioned Rahul Gandhi’s commitment to fulfilling his promises, noting his return to Dallas after previously pledging to visit.
“Last time Rahul Gandhi was here, he promised to visit Dallas, and now he’s keeping that promise. He walks the talk, and I’m pleased that despite his busy schedule, he made time to spend a day here and two days in Washington DC,” Pitroda shared.
Discussing the Indian Overseas Congress, Pitroda explained its role in supporting the Indian National Congress’s global initiatives in 32 countries, with a focus on strengthening democratic efforts, increasing membership, and raising awareness about the party’s values.
