At Odisha rally, Rahul Gandhi takes on Adani – ‘Jagannath Yatra raths were stopped for him’
Rahul Gandhi, speaking at a large rally in Odisha, made bold claims that triggered political and public reactions. He said the government stopped the sacred Jagannath Rath Yatra so Gautam Adani’s family could attend without disruption. The statement drew both support and backlash, reflecting deeper concerns about corporate control over public life.
Rath Yatra Interrupted for Billionaires, Says Gandhi
The Jagannath Rath Yatra in Puri is a centuries-old religious procession. It draws thousands of devotees who come to witness the grand chariot movement of Lord Jagannath and his siblings. Gandhi alleged this year’s procession was paused to accommodate Adani’s family.
“The chariots were stopped so Adani’s family could pass. That’s never happened before,” he claimed.
This accusation angered many, especially in Odisha, where the Rath Yatra holds deep spiritual meaning.
Corporate Power Overshadowing Citizens’ Rights
Gandhi didn’t limit his criticism to the Rath Yatra incident. He attacked both the Odisha government and the central BJP government for favoring industrialists. According to him, large companies like Adani and Ambani now control resources meant for the people.
He said these companies were given forests, rivers, and land, leaving tribal communities with nothing.
“They are snatching away jal, jungle, and zameen from the Adivasis,” Gandhi said.
He emphasized that the Constitution promises equal rights for all, not just the wealthy few.
Congress Campaign: Save the Constitution
The rally was part of the Congress’s national “Samvidhan Bachao” (Save the Constitution) movement. Gandhi said democratic values were under attack. He argued that both national and state institutions were slowly losing independence.
He warned that if people didn’t act now, the Constitution itself would lose its power.
Gandhi also demanded a nationwide caste census. He said real justice depends on knowing who needs the most support.
Gandhi Questions Safety of Women in Odisha
Gandhi raised serious concerns about law and order in Odisha. He said over 40,000 women had gone missing in recent years. He added that 15 rapes happen every day in the state.
“Is the Chief Minister asleep? Why is no one talking about this?” Gandhi asked.
He blamed the government’s silence on its close ties to powerful businessmen. According to him, these ties have diverted attention away from public safety.
Voter Roll Changes and Election Bias
Gandhi also questioned the fairness of elections. He accused the BJP of manipulating voter rolls in states like Maharashtra and Bihar. He claimed over one crore new names were added without proper checks.
He criticized the Election Commission, saying it no longer works independently. According to him, the commission now helps the ruling party instead of the people.
Despite Roadblocks, Rally Draws Huge Crowd
Local Congress leaders said the government tried to disrupt the event. Many bus and auto drivers who agreed to bring supporters later backed out, allegedly due to pressure.
Still, thousands of people attended the rally. Gandhi thanked them and praised their courage.
“You showed the government that the people still have power,” he said.
BJP and BJD Hit Back
BJP leaders dismissed Gandhi’s speech as political drama. They said he was trying to deflect attention from Congress’s poor performance in recent elections.
The BJD also denied the Rath Yatra claim. They said the state had no role in managing the religious procession’s pace. According to them, Gandhi’s remarks insulted Odia culture and traditions.
A Shift in Congress Strategy?
Gandhi’s speech showed a new, more aggressive tone. He focused on inequality, corporate power, and the need to protect democratic values. This may signal a fresh direction for Congress in upcoming elections.
By linking a sacred ritual to rising corporate influence, Gandhi took a bold step. Whether the message resonates remains to be seen.
Conclusion
Rahul Gandhi’s Odisha rally sent a strong message. He warned that unchecked corporate influence could harm democracy and weaken cultural traditions. His allegations about the Rath Yatra struck a nerve in Odisha and beyond.
With elections nearing, this speech may be a turning point in Congress’s campaign. The coming months will reveal if voters connect with Gandhi’s call to defend the Constitution and challenge the power of billionaires.
