Sachin Pilot Defends Rahul Gandhi Amid Intensifying BJP Criticism

Sachin Pilot defends Rahul Gandhi amid BJP's increasing criticism over Gandhi's US visit and comments. Accuses BJP of 'double standards' and 'restlessness' as elections approach. Addresses central government’s alleged policy failures, farmer issues, and rising unemployment.

Amid escalating tensions over Rahul Gandhi's trip to the United States, Congress leader Sachin Pilot defended the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha. Pilot asserted that the Bharatiya Janata Party's primary focus is to malign the Raebareli MP, especially following their poor performance in the Lok Sabha elections.

Speaking to ANI on Thursday, Pilot remarked, "The BJP has only one agenda; after a bad performance in the Lok Sabha elections, they are targeting Rahul Gandhi. Whenever the opposition gets stronger, the ruling party becomes restless. Our aim is to always highlight the issues of the poor, farmers, and middle class, both in and out of Parliament. However, the BJP continues to criticize Rahul Gandhi in every form."

Rahul Gandhi's US visit, which included meetings with several American leaders and interactions with the Indian diaspora, has sparked controversy. His comments on reservation and the Sikh community have led to accusations from the BJP, alleging a 'divisive' agenda aimed at inciting people.

Discussing the upcoming state assembly polls, Pilot noted that BJP leaders are becoming increasingly uneasy as the electoral climate appears favorable for Congress. He criticized the 'double standards' of the BJP, highlighting how central government initiatives are not labeled 'freebies,' yet opposition efforts to aid the poor and farmers are dismissed as such.

Pilot further condemned the central government for neglecting farmer voices during the protests, warning that the BJP would face consequences for their actions. He reiterated Congress's commitment to supporting farmers' demands and enacting a law on Minimum Support Price (MSP) if they come to power.

State assembly elections in Haryana and Jammu and Kashmir are scheduled for September and October. Haryana's elections will occur on October 5, while J&K will vote in three phases on September 18, September 25, and October 1, with counting for both elections on October 8.

(With inputs from agencies.)