During an interaction with students in Washington DC, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said on Tuesday, “I don’t hate Mr. Modi.” Gandhi explained that while he disagrees with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s perspective, he does not harbor any hatred towards him. “He has a point of view; I don’t agree with it, but I don’t hate him. He has a different perspective, and I have mine,” he added.
Addressing the Indian diaspora in Washington DC on Monday, Rahul Gandhi referred to them as a “bridge” between India and the United States. He noted that the diaspora embodies two identities—both Indian and American—and plays a key role in transferring ideas and values between the two nations.
“You are the bridge between these two great unions of states,” Gandhi said, acknowledging the challenges they faced in moving to the US. “You came here with humility, respect, and affection, proud of both India and the United States,” he added.
Gandhi emphasized that the Congress party’s message is one of love and unity, contrasting it with the BJP’s approach. He claimed that the BJP and the RSS believe that a person cannot hold two identities simultaneously, whereas the Congress believes in spreading love and inclusivity.
“The BJP says you cannot be both Indian and American. That’s what the fight is about. We’re saying, don’t spread hatred—spread love. Don’t be arrogant—be humble. Don’t disrespect people, communities, religions, traditions, or languages,” Gandhi urged.
In his address, Gandhi criticized the RSS for not comprehending the true essence of India’s diversity. He pointed out that India is a “union of states,” as defined in the Constitution, encompassing a rich blend of languages, traditions, and histories.
He alleged that the RSS believes certain states and communities are inferior to others. “The RSS claims that certain languages, religions, and communities are lesser. This is the core of the battle,” he stated, emphasizing that each language and tradition is equally important. He argued that India’s future hinges on whether it becomes a place where people are free to express their beliefs, or one where a few dictate what the country should be.
