Daijiworld Media Network - Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad, Mar 8: In a bid to revive the Congress party’s presence in Gujarat, Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, addressed party workers and former local election candidates in Ahmedabad during the ‘Samvaad’ programme on Saturday. He stressed the urgent need for the Congress to rebuild trust with the people and reclaim its position in the state’s political landscape.

Gandhi, acknowledging the party’s struggles in Gujarat, where it has been out of power for nearly three decades, emphasized that success would not come solely by contesting elections, but through consistent grassroots engagement. "Until we fulfill our responsibilities, the people of Gujarat will not elect us. We must first earn their trust," he asserted.

Highlighting Gujarat’s historical ties to Congress, Gandhi reminded the audience of Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Patel, who were instrumental in shaping India's independence movement. He urged the party to reclaim its role as a guiding force, just as it had done in the past.

Addressing internal issues within Gujarat Congress, Gandhi noted that the party comprises two types of leaders—those genuinely connected to the people and those who remain detached. He called for decisive action against those who do not align with the party’s core values or secretly support the BJP. "If we have to remove 10, 15, 20, or even 40 people working against us, we must do it," he declared.

Gandhi took aim at Gujarat’s current leadership, criticizing its handling of small and medium businesses, farmers, and industries. He claimed the existing governance model has failed and that Gujarat needs a new vision—one that Congress can provide. However, he reiterated that regaining public trust was the first step toward this transformation.

Drawing from his experience in the Bharat Jodo Yatra, Gandhi explained how direct engagement with citizens helped Congress reconnect with people across India. He urged Gujarat Congress leaders and workers to embrace the same approach, listen to public grievances, and rebuild a relationship based on trust and accountability.

Encouraging party workers, Gandhi pointed out that the opposition already holds 40% of the vote in Gujarat. "If we can increase our vote share by just 5%, the entire political equation will change," he said, citing Telangana’s success as an example.

Towards the end of his speech, Gandhi added a touch of humor, referencing Gujarat’s renowned hospitality. "Every time I visit, no matter how much I try to control my weight, you take me to restaurants and serve delicious snacks, and I end up gaining a kilo!" he joked, drawing laughter and applause from the audience.

Concluding his speech, Gandhi reaffirmed his commitment to the Congress party’s revival in Gujarat. "It is my responsibility to restore the confidence of our party workers, and I will fulfill that responsibility," he said, urging unity and perseverance among party members.