Rahul Gandhi’s approach helps BJP, does not strengthen INDIA bloc: Vijayan hits back after Cong leader's 'hug’ remark

Veteran Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader and former Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan launched a strong critique of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's political strategy. Vijayan asserted that Gandhi's approach does not bolster the INDIA alliance but instead inadvertently strengthens the rival Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

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But we all saw the photograph of Rahul Gandhi hugging Narendra Modi. My objection is not to the act of hugging Modi itself. Rather, his remarks represent a particular political message. It reflects Rahul Gandhi's approach and how he views the INDIA alliance.

Vijayan's comments emerged amid political tension sparked by an alleged remark from Gandhi. Reports suggest Gandhi indicated he would not hug Vijayan due to their political rivalry in Kerala. Responding to this, Vijayan quipped, "But we all saw the photograph of Rahul Gandhi hugging Narendra Modi." He clarified his objection was not to hugging itself, but to the political message it conveyed about Gandhi's view of the INDIA alliance.

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It is not only us, but also leaders such as Akhilesh Yadav and Tejashwi Yadav, along with other major non-Congress parties, who raised objections during the meeting and spoke against the Congress position.

The former chief minister expressed disapproval of the Congress party's and Gandhi's leadership within the INDIA alliance. He stated that other major non-Congress parties, including leaders like Akhilesh Yadav and Tejashwi Yadav, had also voiced concerns about the Congress's position during alliance meetings. Vijayan argued that the current situation stems from the Congress party's approach, particularly Gandhi's, which he believes does not strengthen the alliance and effectively serves the BJP's interests.

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The current situation has been created by the Congress party's approach, particularly by Rahul Gandhi's approach. The reality is that this approach does not strengthen the INDIA alliance. As I have said before, it often ends up helping the BJP. Through such actions, Rahul Gandhi is creating a situation where he effectively becomes a facilitator of the BJP's interests.

Other CPI(M) leaders echoed Vijayan's sentiments. CPI(M) General Secretary M.A. Baby wrote to Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, describing Gandhi's alleged comments as inconsistent with the spirit of opposition cooperation. Rajya Sabha MP John Brittas also urged that Gandhi's statements be viewed within the broader context of the alliance discussions, noting perceived contradictions in Gandhi's remarks.

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An embrace is not something that can be forced; it is a gesture of affection and goodwill that comes naturally.