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The recent Delhi election rally saw Congress leader Rahul Gandhi launch a scathing attack on Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo Arvind Kejriwal. Gandhi's criticisms focused on Kejriwal's perceived hypocrisy regarding wealth and his governance record. The core of Gandhi's argument revolved around the stark contrast between Kejriwal's humble beginnings, often portrayed in his earlier campaigns, and his current lifestyle. Gandhi's assertion that Kejriwal, who once campaigned in a small car and promised a new kind of politics, now resides in a lavish 'Sheesh Mahal' (palace), serves as a potent symbol of this alleged hypocrisy. This rhetorical device aims to discredit Kejriwal's image as a champion of the common man, suggesting that his priorities have shifted since his initial rise to prominence. The contrast between the modest car and the opulent residence is intended to evoke a sense of betrayal and disillusionment among voters who may have once supported Kejriwal based on his promises of clean and accessible governance.
Gandhi's attack extended beyond personal attacks, encompassing accusations of neglecting the poor and disappearing during times of crisis. He cited instances where Kejriwal's leadership was allegedly deficient, highlighting instances of inaction during periods of unrest or significant hardship faced by the city's impoverished population. The implication is that Kejriwal's focus has drifted from the needs of the people, prioritizing personal gain or political maneuvering over the welfare of his constituents. This narrative directly challenges Kejriwal's claim of being a representative of the common people, painting him instead as an out-of-touch politician who has abandoned his initial values and commitments. By associating Kejriwal's alleged failures with a lack of compassion and responsiveness to the needs of the poor, Gandhi hopes to undermine his credibility and garner support for the Congress party.
Beyond his personal attacks on Kejriwal, Gandhi also broadened his critique to encompass the BJP's ideology and policies. He framed the upcoming elections as a battle of ideologies, contrasting Congress's perceived emphasis on love and inclusivity with the BJP's alleged promotion of hatred and violence. This framing attempts to position the Congress as a defender of secular values and social harmony, countering the BJP's narrative. Gandhi specifically criticized the BJP's stance on the constitution, citing concerns about potential changes to the document. The reference to Ambedkar's legacy is also strategically important, aiming to appeal to a wider base of voters who value the principles of the constitution and consider Ambedkar a pivotal figure in Indian history. The alleged exclusion of the President from key events further strengthens this argument, portraying the BJP as disrespectful of constitutional norms and undermining the equality of all citizens.
Gandhi's remarks about the economic disparity in India, where billionaires reportedly attended the Ram Mandir ceremony while the tribal President was excluded, highlight what he sees as a profound imbalance in power and opportunity. This strategy employs a populist approach, associating the BJP with the interests of the wealthy elite and portraying the Congress as an advocate for the marginalized. The claim about the minimal involvement of Dalits, backward communities, and tribal groups in budget allocation decisions is further intended to emphasize the alleged disconnect between the BJP's governance and the needs of these groups. The promise to implement a nationwide caste census and remove the 50 percent ceiling on reservation aims to appeal directly to these communities, presenting the Congress as a party committed to their empowerment and representation. The overall strategy appears designed to attract disillusioned voters who might be looking for an alternative to both the BJP and the AAP.