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Business News›Magazines›Panache›Panache People 101›Rahul Gandhi
    Rahul Gandhi

    Rahul Gandhi

    Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha, Wayanad
    Birth DetailsJune 19, 1970 | New Delhi
    NationalityIndian
    LeaguePolitician
    EducationBachelor’s Degree, St. Stephen's College, Harvard University & Rollins College; M. Phil, Trinity College, Cambridge
    Rahul Gandhi’s Journey so far ...
    • After getting through college, Rahul Gandhi worked for a London-based management consulting firm called the Monitor Group
    • He returned to India in 2002 and started a technology consultancy firm called Backops Services Private Ltd, which was based in Mumbai
    • Gandhi ventured into politics in 2004 and contested the Lok Sabha elections that year from his father’s constituency, Amethi in Uttar Pradesh (UP). He won the election and served as a member of the Standing Committee on Home Affairs and the Standing Committee on Human Resource Development
    • He was re-elected for a second term in the Lower House in 2009 and this time, took charge of the Standing Committee on Human Resource Development and the Consultative Committee on Rural Development as a member
    • Gandhi was elected as the vice-president of the Indian National Congress (INC) in 2013 and had since then, operated as the party's number 2
    • He got a third term in the Lok Sabha, which began in 2014. During this term, he was appointed as a member of the Standing Committee on External Affairs and the Consultative Committee of the Ministry of Finance and Corporate Affairs
    • In 2017, he took charge as the president of the Congress. He was the 49th Congress president and the sixth member of the Nehru-Gandhi family to hold the coveted post
    • He won the Lok Sabha elections from the Wayand constituency in Kerala in 2019 but lost to Smriti Irani in his family bastion of Amethi. The Gandhi scion had defeated her in Amethi in 2014 by a margin of 1.07 lakh votes
    • Later in 2019, he resigned from his post as the president of the Congress
    • Since resigning in 2019, he has been general secretary, vice-president and then the president of the party. His efforts to reform and democratise the party started with the Youth Congress and the National Students’ Union of India, two time-tested and bold nurseries for future Congress leaders
    • In December 2018, he successfully captained the party to victory in the three Hindi heartland states of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh
    • Gandhi singularly led the 2019 campaign, holding 150 rallies, 10 press conferences and many road shows during the poll campaign
    • Over the years, Gandhi has addressed press conferences, answering questions and tackling the BJP government on a host of issues. He has been very proactive on social media and often challenged Modi to a debate

    Before you go ...
    • His great grandfather Jawaharlal Nehru was the first Prime Minister of independent India and his grandmother Indira Gandhi was the first woman to become the Prime Minister of India. His father Rajiv Gandhi served as the Prime Minister of India from 1984 to 1989. His mother Sonia Gandhi is a senior leader of the Congress party, while his sister Priyanka Gandhi is also active in politics and works with the party
    • He and his sister were homeschooled because of security reasons after their grandmother was assassinated in 1984. When his father was assassinated in 1991, he was in his second year of college in the USA and had to shift from Harvard University to Rollins College due to security threats. He even adopted a pseudonym to conceal his identity while attending Rollins

    Last Updated: 27/09/2021

    Rahul Gandhi News

    • Rahul Gandhi shared a video of martial arts sessions from his Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, announcing an upcoming Bharat Dojo Yatra. He highlighted daily Jiu-Jitsu practice during the journey, aiming to teach non-violent conflict resolution. Gandhi, a black belt in Aikido and blue belt in Jiu-Jitsu, emphasized the importance of gentleness and compassion.
    • On National Sports Day, the Congress party shared a video of Rahul Gandhi practicing Jiu-Jitsu during the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. The practice became a community activity involving yatris and local youths. Gandhi aimed to introduce the 'Gentle Art' to young participants, advocating for non-violence and compassion in society. A new initiative, Bharat Dojo Yatra, is upcoming.
    • Rahul Gandhi shared a video showcasing martial arts sessions from his Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra and announced a new initiative called Bharat Dojo Yatra. During the Yatra, participants engaged in daily jiu-jitsu practices, promoting fitness and community interaction. Gandhi hopes to inspire others to take up martial arts for a more compassionate society.
    • Former Union Minister Smriti Irani discussed Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's recent political strategies, suggesting that his actions are calculated to appeal to specific demographics. Irani criticized Gandhi’s past attempts at 'soft Hindutva' and reflected on his switch to caste-based politics to maintain relevance. She claims Gandhi’s statements are part of a broader strategy to stay in the public eye.
    • BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawala has criticized West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee, accusing her of insulting protestors and doctors. Poonawala claims Banerjee prioritizes revenge over justice, creating unrest in Bengal. He questions whether other leaders will address Banerjee's controversial statements about burning several Indian states.
    • Rahul Gandhi criticised the Uttar Pradesh government after two Dalit teenage girls were found hanging from a tree in Fatehgarh. He questioned the administration's priorities, pointing out that expecting justice under the BJP was a crime. The incident drew condemnation from other political leaders, who demanded an impartial investigation into the matter.
    • Gujarat faces severe flooding due to relentless rains, prompting Congress to criticize PM Modi's 'Gujarat Model'. Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi urge for immediate government action. With a rising death toll and thousands evacuated, rescue operations are underway with involvement from various agencies, including NDRF and the Indian Army.
    • Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi have voiced deep concern over Gujarat’s worsening flood crisis, urging the government to ramp up relief efforts. With rains persisting for a fourth day, the death toll has reached 16 and over 8,500 people have been evacuated. They called for increased NDRF and SDRF teams, and support for ongoing rescue operations.
    • Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is expected to shorten his USA visit in September to 5-7 days due to upcoming assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir and Haryana. This will be his first visit since becoming the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha. In his absence, Priyanka Gandhi will kickstart the party's campaign in September, with several rallies planned in both states.
    • Kangana Ranaut had posted a clip of her interview with Hindi daily Dainik Bhaskar in which she suggested that a "Bangladesh-like situation" could have erupted in India but for the country's strong leadership. She then alleged that bodies were hanging and rapes were taking place during the farmers' protest against the now-repealed three farm laws.
    • Gandhi’s marital status has long been a topic of speculation. During his visit to Jammu and Kashmir last week, the conversation inevitably turned to the subject of marriage. When asked if he plans to marry, Gandhi responded, "I don’t plan it, but if it happens..."
    • In response to Kangana Ranaut's controversial remarks on the farmer protests, Rahul Gandhi claimed the BJP's propaganda machinery disrespects farmers. He mentioned the sacrifice of 700 farmers during the 378-day protest and noted that labeling them as rapists and foreign agents underscores the BJP's anti-farmer stance and intentions.
    • ​​Congress general secretary organisation, K C Venugopal will hold talks with NC president Farooq Abdullah and vice president Omar Abdullah at their residence here, leaders in both the parties said. They said the meeting was necessitated after "some differences" cropped up in seat-sharing arrangement during the talks between the local leadership of the parties.
    • The Congress leadership faced dual challenges in Karnataka, urging Siddaramaiah's government to release the state's caste census findings after 15 months and addressing a land allotment controversy involving the CM. Concerns over the panel's findings and potential backlash held back the report, complicating Rahul Gandhi's advocacy for a caste census.
    • Chirag Paswan, Union minister and LJP (Ram Vilas) president, voiced support for a caste census, joining several Opposition leaders' demand. He highlighted the importance of this data for fair resource distribution and integrating diverse castes. Paswan also confirmed his party's stance and stated they would contest the forthcoming Jharkhand assembly elections.
    • The BJP rebuked Rahul Gandhi for stating there were no Dalit, Adivasi, or OBC Miss India winners, suggesting the debate respected its sanctity. Gandhi's comments, made during a caste census advocacy event, emphasized the lack of representation from marginalised communities in significant cultural platforms.
    • The BJP praised PM Modi for the unified pension scheme for central government employees while criticizing Congress for failing to reinstate the old pension scheme in states where it holds power. Ravi Shankar Prasad accused Congress of empty promises, contrasting this with Modi's careful decision-making, and urged Congress to fulfill its commitments.
    • Addressing a gathering at the Samvidhan Samman Sammelan in Prayagraj, Gandhi said, "I checked the list of Miss India to see if there would be any Dalit or tribal woman in it, but there was no women from Dalit, tribal or OBC."
    • Rahul Gandhi emphasized the significance of a caste census for Congress's policy-making. Highlighting the exclusion of 90% of the population from the system, he stressed the need to understand wealth distribution and representation of OBCs, Dalits, and workers in key sectors. Gandhi said the caste census would be a priority task if Congress is elected.
    • Rahul Gandhi shared Instagram photos showing his mother Sonia Gandhi with Noorie, a dog he gifted her, capturing widespread attention. The heartwarming post emphasised their bond and quickly went viral. Concurrently, Rahul faces ongoing legal challenges, with a defamation case hearing set for September 5.
    • Karnataka's CM Siddaramaiah, backed by the Congress high command, faced a land allotment controversy framed as a BJP plot. Siddaramaiah and deputy CM Shivakumar discussed this with Congress leaders in Delhi. The controversy arose after a police complaint against Siddaramaiah, which he has challenged in the Karnataka HC, was sanctioned by the Governor.
    • Gandhi's lawyer Kashi Prasad Shukla said plaintiff Mishra did not appear in the court for evidence due to ill health. Now the court has fixed the date of September 5 for hearing, he added. During the Karnataka elections in 2018, Gandhi allegedly made objectionable remarks against senior BJP leader and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
    • Omar Abdullah confirmed that the National Conference and Congress have settled on a seat-sharing formula for the majority of assembly seats in Jammu and Kashmir. Discussions are still ongoing for a few seats. The elections, the first since Article 370's abrogation, will occur in three phases starting September 18.
    • Union minister G Kishan Reddy has asked Congress to clarify its position on Article 370. Reddy, who chaired an organisational meeting to review BJP's preparations for J&K polls, also questioned Congress on National Conference's manifesto and said Abdullah-led party sought to reverse the rights granted to various sections of people in the Union Territory.
    • Congress and National Conference have formed a pre-poll alliance for the J&K assembly elections, aiming to combat divisive forces. The leaders met to discuss seat-sharing for 90 seats and emphasized restoring statehood to J&K. The alliance is open to post-poll collaborations with other parties.
    • Congress MP Rahul Gandhi addressed party workers in Srinagar, claiming that Congress has eroded PM Modi's confidence and given him psychological tension. He emphasized the party's priority to restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Assembly polls in J-K are scheduled for September and October with vote counting on October 4.
    • Rahul Gandhi hints at a possible coalition with Farooq Abdullah’s National Conference Party ahead of Jammu & Kashmir polls, emphasizing respect for Congress workers. The elections are scheduled in three phases, starting on September 18. Gandhi and Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge have been engaging with party workers in preparation.
    • Rahul Gandhi highlighted the challenges victims face in filing FIRs, referencing recent crimes in Maharashtra. He criticized authorities for concealing crimes, stating that such actions embolden criminals and discourage victims. Gandhi called for serious discussion on measures to create a safer environment for women, emphasizing the necessity for public protests to obtain justice.
    • Union Minister G Kishan Reddy criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's visit to Jammu and Kashmir, crediting the Modi government for the improved security. He questioned Congress' stance on Article 370. Rahul Gandhi emphasized the importance of statehood for Jammu and Kashmir. Upcoming elections will be the first since Article 370 was revoked.
    • Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge expressed willingness to ally with opposition parties for the upcoming Jammu and Kashmir assembly polls, criticizing BJP's unfulfilled promises. Alongside Rahul Gandhi, Kharge engaged with local Congress leaders for feedback. The assembly polls will be conducted in three phases starting September 18, with vote counting on October 4.
    • Rahul Gandhi suggested a possible Congress coalition in Jammu & Kashmir, possibly with Farooq Abdullah's National Conference Party. Speaking in Srinagar, he stressed the significance of J&K's representation and commended Congress workers' efforts. The assembly elections will occur in three phases, with the vote count on October 4.
    • ​​The Congress leaders are scheduled to meet INDIA bloc members Omar Abdullah and Farooq Abdullah of the National Conference here and later may interact with the PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti as well. ​​Gandhi is scheduled to address a press conference here on Thursday morning and later will fly to Jammu where he will attend a workers' meeting.
    • Congress leader Rahul Gandhi visited the family of Arjun Pasi, a 22-year-old Dalit man who was shot dead in Salon, Uttar Pradesh. Gandhi assured the family that he would fight to ensure they receive justice. He expressed concern over the lack of action against the alleged mastermind behind the killing, criticizing local authorities for only arresting minor suspects. Gandhi vowed to continue pushing for justice until the family is satisfied, emphasizing the need for equal treatment and respect for all sections of society in Uttar Pradesh.
    • Rahul Gandhi commemorated his father Rajiv Gandhi's birth anniversary, pledging to carry forward his vision for India. He visited Veer Bhumi to offer floral tributes. Party MP Jairam Ramesh praised Rajiv Gandhi's impactful political and technological contributions, citing significant reforms and national development projects during his time as Prime Minister.
    • Recent government initiatives to recruit external experts into the bureaucracy, known as lateral entry, have caused political contention. Initially recommended by the UPA's Reforms Commission, the practice implemented under PM Modi faces criticism for not reserving seats for SC, ST, and OBC communities, while supporters argue it improves governance.
    • rime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on what would have been his 80th birthday. Gandhi, India's youngest prime minister, served from 1984 to 1989.
    • Arjun Ram Meghwal rebuked Rahul Gandhi's claim that the government bypassed the reservation system via lateral entry, noting former PM Manmohan Singh's 1976 appointment as finance secretary through this route. Meghwal dismissed Gandhi's RSS allegations and stressed the UPSC's role in methodically handling lateral entry under Prime Minister Modi's governance.
    • Rahul Gandhi discussed the challenges faced by gig workers, particularly cab drivers and delivery agents, during an Uber ride with a driver. He emphasized the need for concrete policies by Congress-led state governments to address their issues, promising nationwide implementation through the INDIA bloc. Gandhi assured steps towards social security for these workers.
    • Chirag Paswan of the LJP opposed lateral entry in government appointments, insisting on reservation provisions. The UPSC's recent lateral recruitment notification has drawn opposition criticism. Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav argue it undermines reservation rights for OBCs, SCs, and STs, alleging Prime Minister Modi is attacking constitutional norms.
    • Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi criticized BJP's lateral entry policy on X, calling it an attack on Dalits, OBCs, and Adivasis. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw accused UPA of hypocrisy, stating they introduced lateral entry. Gandhi accused PM Modi of appointing public servants through RSS, bypassing UPSC. He pledged to oppose this move, calling it a threat to social justice and administrative integrity.
    • Akhilesh Yadav slammed the Centre's lateral entry into government jobs, alleging it's a plot against reservation rights. He called for a nationwide movement against the policy from October 2nd. Rahul Gandhi echoed concerns, claiming it bypasses the traditional UPSC route, placing ideologically aligned individuals in influential government positions.
    • On Sunday, opposition parties criticized the government's decision to hire public servants through lateral entry, arguing it would remove reservations for SCs, STs, and OBCs. The BJP defended the move, stating it aims to introduce transparency in a practice initiated under the Congress-led UPA. Opposition parties including the Congress, Samajwadi Party (SP), and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) accused the BJP of using this method to appoint their ideological allies to high positions discreetly.
    • Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar, speaking in Nellore, condemned those prioritizing political interests over the nation’s welfare. He hoped they gain wisdom from the sacrifices made for India's freedom. His remarks followed his concern about narratives potentially damaging the economy, interpreted as a critique of Rahul Gandhi.
    • Kejriwal, who is also the AAP national convenor, was arrested by the ED on March 21 in a money laundering case linked to the alleged Delhi excise policy scam.
    • A seating arrangement dispute took place during the August 15th celebration at Red Fort. Congress’s Rahul Gandhi was seated in the second-last row, against protocol expectations. The defense ministry defended their decision, citing the 'table of precedence' and reserving front seats for Olympic medalists. Rahul Gandhi did not comment on the matter.
    • KPCC general secretary Sankara Guha Dwarakanath called on Rahul Gandhi to take a more significant role in protecting doctors following an alleged gangrape in Kolkata. He urged Gandhi to advocate for stricter laws and a dedicated court for such cases. Dwarakanath praised Gandhi's past efforts for women's rights and proposed a meeting to discuss solutions.
    • Rahul Gandhi and Foxconn chairman Young Liu met in Delhi to discuss the future of technological innovation in India and worldwide. Liu, who received the Padma Bhushan, highlighted Foxconn's ongoing expansion in India. The company already employs over 40,000 people and plans to set up a new chip plant, electric vehicle unit and Apple Airpods facility.
    • On Independence Day, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge accused the Modi government of divisive policies and undermining constitutional institutions. He questioned the RSS's contribution to India's freedom movement. Congress leaders criticized Modi's comments on the Hindu Code Bill, stating it insulted Dr. Ambedkar. The Opposition pledged to defend the Constitution and raise public issues.
    • The Congress questioned the Modi government's decision to place Rahul Gandhi in the fourth row during the Independence Day event at Red Fort. Supriya Shrinate criticized this move, calling it disrespectful to democratic conventions. Previously, similar concerns were raised when Mallikarjun Kharge was seated during past Independence Day events.
    • ​​Rahul Gandhi said on Thursday, he met a group of Manipuri people living in Delhi who shared their heartbreaking struggles since ethnic clashes broke out in the northeastern state.
    • The 78th Independence Day celebrations saw Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi seated in the second last row, sparking significant discussion on social media. This marked the first time in a decade that the LoP attended the Red Fort event. The Ministry of Defence stated that Gandhi’s placement was due to seats being allocated to Olympic medallists, a departure from standard protocol. Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge criticized the BJP's approach to national unity and patriotism during his speech.
    • The Congress criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for seating Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi in the fifth row at the Independence Day celebrations. The party claimed this act demonstrates a lack of respect for democratic traditions and accused Modi of showing pettiness. The decision was defended by event organizers, citing the table of precedence.
    • On the 78th Independence Day, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi highlighted the significance of freedom as a core constitutional and democratic value. He attended celebrations at the Red Fort and participated in the flag hoisting ceremony at the AICC headquarters, urging citizens to cherish their freedom.
    • In his 78th Independence Day speech, Prime Minister Modi denounced nepotism in Indian politics and called for one lakh new youth without political family ties to join the system. He emphasized this move to combat nepotism and casteism, aiming for fresh perspectives in politics. Modi also delivered his longest speech, lasting 98 minutes, and highlighted the theme 'Viksit Bharat @ 2047' for India's development by 2047.
    • Rahul Gandhi participated in Independence Day celebrations at New Delhi's Red Fort, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation. This was the first time a Leader of the Opposition attended the event, as the position had been vacant since 2014. Gandhi's appointment followed Congress's improved performance in the Lok Sabha elections.
    • Thackeray, accompanied by his son Aditya Thackeray and senior party leader Sanjay Raut, met Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge last week in Delhi. They also held talks with NCP (SCP) chief Sharad Pawar.
    • Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticized the TMC-led West Bengal government for allegedly shielding those responsible for the rape and murder of a junior doctor in Kolkata. Gandhi expressed outrage over the incident and questioned the safety measures in educational and medical institutions, as well as the effectiveness of laws implemented after the Nirbhaya case.
    • The BJP blamed Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav for an increase in criminal activities in Uttar Pradesh, alleging that the Samajwadi Party shelters criminals. Spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi criticized the INDIA bloc for defending these elements. He also questioned Mamata Banerjee’s delay in transferring a rape and murder case to the CBI.
    • Rahul Gandhi's defamation case was delayed due to the absence of the special judge. BJP leader Vijay Mishra initiated the case over Gandhi's remarks about Amit Shah. The court set the next hearing date for August 23. Gandhi had previously appeared in court, disputing the basis for the defamation claim.
    • Union Minister Giriraj Singh condemned Hindenburg Research and Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Jairam Ramesh, accusing them of defaming India. Singh vowed strict action against Hindenburg, which recently alleged that SEBI chairperson Madhabi Buch and her husband had stakes in offshore funds linked to the Adani scandal. Both Buch and Adani have denied the claims
    • BJP leader Nalin Kohli responded to the Hindenburg report and its allegations against SEBI chairperson Madhabi Buch, asserting that statements from such private firms should not be supported due to potential broader implications. Kohli emphasized the importance of public faith in the Supreme Court decisions and hinted that these repeated allegations might be part of a larger conspiracy aimed at destabilizing India's economy and democratic process.
    • Hindenburg Research's latest report questions the neutrality of India's stock-market watchdog, SEBI, amid ongoing scrutiny of Gautam Adani. Allegations suggest a conflict of interest involving SEBI's chairperson, Madhabi Puri Buch, and her investment links. With Adani's fortunes rebounding, the Congress Party is pushing for a parliamentary probe.
    • Govind Dholakia promised BJP women MPs a return gift of a diamond for Raksha Bandhan if they visit Surat. Uddhav Thackeray claimed BJP's leadership undermines leaders like Shivraj Chouhan. Congress's Gaurav Gogoi warned MPs against media interactions in Parliament. The contradictions amused many MPs, who view it as an attempt to centralize media control.
    • The Opposition INDIA bloc has intensified its criticism of the government following the latest Hindenburg Research report, calling for the resignation of Sebi chief Madhabi Puri Buch and demanding a Supreme Court inquiry and a Joint Parliamentary Committee investigation. Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, accused Buch of conflict of interest and questioned the integrity of Sebi's probe into the Adani group. They also highlighted concerns about Buch’s prior interactions with Adani and called for immediate action to address these conflicts.
    • Rahul Gandhi raised concerns about SEBI's integrity after allegations by Hindenburg Research against its chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch. He questioned her continuation in office and held top figures responsible for potential investor losses. Hindenburg alleged Buch’s undisclosed investments were tied to the Adani Group, a claim denied by both Buch and the conglomerate.
    • During the Lok Sabha session on Wednesday, a small group of MPs protested the disqualification of wrestler Vinesh Phogat from the Olympics, raising slogans about "injustice to the nation's daughter" and demanding government response.
    • Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray met Congress leaders to discuss the Maharashtra Assembly poll alliance. He emphasized regular meetings for the INDIA bloc and a coordination mechanism. He also met NCP leader Sharad Pawar. Thackeray aims to finalize seat-sharing talks within a month and ruled out aligning with the BJP.
    • Congress is preparing for the Maharashtra assembly elections, emphasizing farmers' and youth issues, unemployment, and inflation in its manifesto, led by Prithviraj Chavan. The party will hold a rally in Mumbai on August 20, featuring key leaders and allies. Discussions on seat-sharing and campaign planning are ongoing.
    • Rahul Gandhi requested the government to recognize the landslides in Wayanad, Kerala, as a national disaster and provide higher compensation for affected individuals. He commended the rescue efforts by state governments and the central forces. More than 200 deaths have been confirmed, with many others still missing, highlighting the severity of the calamity.
    • External affairs minister S Jaishankar informed political leaders about India's assistance to former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina during the ongoing crisis. He indicated possible foreign involvement but deemed it too early for confirmation. Rahul Gandhi extended support, while Trinamool Congress called for keeping West Bengal in the loop on related developments.
    • Rahul Gandhi engaged with a delegation from the Samyukta Kisan Morcha, addressing topics such as legally guaranteed MSP and farmer debts. The meeting was held at his Parliament House office, with several Congress leaders in attendance. Gandhi reaffirmed the INDIA bloc's dedication to obtaining legal guarantees for MSP in support of farmers' demands.
    • BJP MP Nishikant Dubey addressed Anurag Thakur's caste remarks against Rahul Gandhi in the Lok Sabha. He stated that the Congress leader doesn't have a caste and apologised on Thakur's behalf. Dubey criticised the Congress for advocating a nationwide caste census and alleged that the party opposes reservation for OBCs while aiming to introduce reservations for Christians and Muslims. Thakur's comments sparked a contentious exchange between opposition and treasury members.
    • During the meeting, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar briefed the leaders on the current unrest in Bangladesh. After the briefing, Gandhi expressed his support for the measures taken by the Indian government, emphasising that these actions were in the national interest.
    • Farooq Abdullah, leader of the National Conference, commented on the current situation in Bangladesh, describing it as a "lesson for every dictator" and emphasizing how the populace can lose patience under oppressive conditions. Speaking on Tuesday, Abdullah indicated that the unrest in Bangladesh reflected broader issues within the country's economy and internal affairs.
    • On Tuesday, leaders of the INDIA alliance staged a protest outside the Makar Dwar in Parliament, demanding the rollback of the 18% GST on health and life insurance. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi joined the demonstration, with Congress MP Jebi Mather criticizing the government for showing "no respect for human faith" with the tax. TMC MP Sudip Bandyopadhyay also condemned the GST, calling it "anti-people" and urging its immediate removal. Protests are expected to continue, with calls for Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to address the issue.
    • The Indian National Congress has demanded that elections in Jammu and Kashmir be held according to the Supreme Court-set deadline, accusing the BJP's policy on the region of not respecting 'Kashmiriyat' nor upholding 'Jamhuriyat'. The Congress chief, Mallikarjun Kharge, criticized the Modi government's policy, which he claimed would help integrate the region, boost economic development, and prevent terrorism and separatism.
    • The BJP responded to calls from leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, to label the Wayanad landslides a national disaster, stating no such provision exists as per Central guidelines since the UPA era. Senior leader V Muraleedharan clarified that each disaster is addressed based on severity, and highlighted the government's ongoing rescue efforts and financial aid provided to affected families.
    • In Kerala's Wayanad district, rescue efforts intensified with advanced technology and sniffer dogs as the death toll from severe rains reached 340. Rescue missions sped up with the construction of a 190-foot-long Bailey Bridge. 10,042 individuals are currently in relief camps. Plans for rehabilitating displaced persons are underway.
    • The death toll in Wayanad landslides rose to 333, with 288 still missing, as rescue efforts continue with the army and National Disaster Relief Force. A Bailey Bridge was constructed by the army to aid in transportation and rescue operations. The Thiruvananthapuram corporation pledged ₹2 crore to the disaster relief fund, and 74 unidentified bodies will be cremated. Rahul Gandhi vowed to push for urgent response and rehabilitation efforts.
    • Tuesday's landslides in Wayanad resulted in 333 deaths, with 280 people still unaccounted for. The army and NDRF have been conducting rescue operations, utilizing a swiftly built Bailey Bridge. Authorities are cremating unidentified bodies, and the Congress pledges to build 100 houses for rehabilitation efforts. Relief efforts remain the focal point.
    • ​​Gandhi said that he was going to raise the matter in Delhi and also with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan as "this is a different level of tragedy and should be treated differently".
    • Rahul Gandhi was elected from Wayanad in the 2019 and 2024 polls. He gave up Wayanad as his Lok Sabha seat this time and retained Rai Bareli, another constituency he was elected from.
    • Opposition leaders endorsed Rahul Gandhi's accusation of ED raids being planned as government intimidation tactics against opposition. Gandhi claimed to have been tipped off about the raids. BJP leaders refuted, suggesting Gandhi's guilt. The dispute emerged after Gandhi's critical speech on the Union Budget and PM Modi in Parliament.
    • Congress MP Rahul Gandhi claimed on Friday that the Directorate of Enforcement (ED) was planning a raid on him following his 'Chakravtyuh' speech in the parliament on July 29.
    • On Tuesday, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi accused BJP MP Anurag Thakur of "abusing and insulting" him during the Lok Sabha discussion on the Union Budget. Thakur had engaged in a heated exchange with Gandhi, criticizing those who questioned the caste census while not revealing their caste.
    • Congress MP Rahul Gandhi claimed that the Enforcement Directorate was planning a raid on him following his 'Chakravyuh' speech in Parliament on July 29, after which he said he was 'waiting with open arms' for the raid,. He cited information from ED 'insiders'. Gandhi criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his speech, accusing the government of creating a new 'Chakravyuh' that is harming the nation's citizens.
    • In Kerala's Wayanad region, rescue workers saved about 1,000 people following severe landslides and heavy rains. With nearly 296 dead and 240 missing, operations were challenged by persistent rain. Rahul Gandhi visited relief camps, focusing on support rather than politics. Reconstruction efforts included opening a new 24-tonne capacity bridge for public use.
    • Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath forecasted the Samajwadi Party's downfall in the 2027 elections while criticizing Rahul Gandhi's unmet election promises. He stressed that SP and Congress cannot continually mislead the public. Adityanath assured that anyone threatening law and order, especially women's safety, would face strict consequences, highlighting his administration's tough stance on crime.
    • Rescue teams saved approximately a thousand people in Wayanad, Kerala, due to landslides from heavy rain. The calamity caused 293 deaths, about 200 injuries, and 240 missing. Rahul Gandhi stressed the importance of relief efforts. Infrastructure rebuilding was aided by Karnataka officials and the Madras Engineering Group.
    • Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra visited the landslide-hit areas of Wayanad, Kerala, expressing deep sorrow and solidarity with the affected families. The disaster, triggered by heavy rains, has resulted in 173 deaths. The Gandhis toured the devastated areas, visited relief camps, and pledged continued support for the community's recovery efforts.
    • ​​AICC general secretary and Alappuzha MP K C Venugopal is also accompanying them. Gandhi, who won from the Wayanad Lok Sabha constituency in the 2019 general elections, had again won from here this year.
    • Meanwhile, Leader of Opposition and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi spoke to Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to assess the situation following a cloudburst that caused significant disruption in Shimla, Mandi and Kullu districts and said that the incidents of cloudburst are "extremely sad." In a post on X, Rahul Gandhi expressed his condolences to all the bereaved families.
    • Sultanpur: During his visit, Gandhi spent a considerable amount of time at Ramchet's kiosk, learning the craft of stitching ‘chappals’ (slippers) and shoes. As a token of appreciation, Gandhi sent an electric shoe stitching machine to Ramchet the following day.
    • Tempers flared in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday following BJP MP Anurag Thakur's controversial question about Rahul Gandhi's caste status. Congress members accused Thakur of attempting to insult Gandhi, while the ruling party argued that questioning Gandhi's caste was fair since he often inquires about others'. A Congress MP filed a breach of privilege notice against PM Narendra Modi for tweeting Thakur's speech, which included expunged remarks. The Speaker adjourned the House amid protests, and opposition members criticized Gandhi's handling of the issue.
    • The Congress party has filed a privilege motion against Prime Minister Narendra Modi for sharing BJP MP Anurag Thakur’s expunged remarks on social media. The remarks, which included a reference to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s caste, led to significant controversy. The Congress argues that Modi's action undermines parliamentary rules and demands a review of the breach of privilege.
    • Congress sources said the two leaders would visit relief camps at the Government Higher Secondary School and St Joseph UP School, Meppadi. They would also visit Dr Moopen's Medical College in Meppadi. The devastating series of landslides in Kerala's Wayanad district has claimed at least 132 lives and injured over 200, with the toll expected to rise as rescuers search through the debris, official sources said.
    • Surya highlighted that in 2020, the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority had recommended relocating 4,000 families from landslide-prone areas in Wayanad. "Till today, no action has been taken," he asserted. "The MP representing Wayanad did not even raise this issue until now."
    • Anurag Thakur's comments ignited a fierce debate in the House. In response, Rahul Gandhi stated that the abuse and insults directed at him stem from his advocacy for the marginalised and oppressed.
    • Akhilesh Yadav of the Samajwadi Party criticized BJP MP Anurag Thakur's caste-related comments in Parliament. Yadav shared his own experiences with caste discrimination and questioned the appropriateness of asking about someone's caste. The debate intensified when Thakur made references to Rahul Gandhi’s caste, sparking a heated discussion in the Lok Sabha.
    • BJP's Anurag Thakur criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in Parliament, calling him an 'accidental Hindu' with limited Mahabharata knowledge. Thakur listed historical flaws attributed to the Congress party and praised the Modi government for economic advancements. Gandhi earlier criticized the Union Budget, alleging it created an atmosphere of fear and neglect among farmers, workers, and youth.
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