Priyanka Gandhi Criticizes Prime Minister Modi in Kullu and Sundernagar Rallies.. Modi has Neglected his second Home".
KULLU/SUNDERNAGAR: In a befitting Counter to the BJP election show of PM Modi in Mandi, Congress today put up a big show in Kullu and Sundarnager to impact the voters of Kullu and Mandi districts ahead of the polling to be held on June 1 in the last phase of the Lok Sabha election.
In a series of election rallies here today in support of Mandi Congress candidate Vikramaditya Singh, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi took aim at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing him of neglecting Himachal Pradesh despite calling it his "second home."
"Today, our leaders are fulfilling their duties by meeting you and working for you.
This is our political civilization, our ideology, and our social and religious tradition," Gandhi said, addressing the crowds.
She highlighted the Congress party's commitment to serving the people, contrasting it with what she described as the BJP's failure to address critical issues such as unemployment, inflation, and pensions.
Gandhi criticized the BJP's election tactics, saying, "When they come for campaigning, they don't talk about your problems. Instead, they focus on religious sentiments to seek votes."
She also condemned the BJP for attempting to topple elected governments by undemocratic means, alleging that they use money and pressure to sway MLAs.
She pointed out the disparity in the government's approach to financial management, saying, "When it comes to the farmers' loans or public welfare, they claim there is no money.
But when it comes to spending on elections or benefiting big businessmen, they seem to have plenty."
Gandhi didn't shy away from addressing the distress of the farmers and the middle class, mentioning the high GST and the unaffordable cost of living.
"A gas cylinder that used to cost ₹400 now costs ₹1200. The government has created these circumstances," she said.
She criticized the handling of women's safety, citing several high-profile cases of violence against women where she felt the government stood with the perpetrators rather than the victims.
Talking about Modi's approach to governance, Gandhi said, "Our Prime Minister thinks he doesn't need to tell you about his work. He waves from a distance but never mingles with the public to understand their issues."
She highlighted the Congress's achievements in the region, such as the establishment of IIT Mandi, IIM Sirmaur, Sundernagar engineering college and claimed that projects initiated by Congress, like the Rohtang Pass tunnel, were later taken over by Modi without acknowledgment.
Priyanka contrasted the response of the Congress with that of the BJP, emphasizing the active involvement of Congress leaders in relief efforts.
"I remember calling Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, our Chief Minister. He was out on the ground, working tirelessly to rescue tourists and assist the affected," she noted.
She highlighted how Congress ministers and workers united with the people, demonstrating solidarity and commitment.
Additionally, Priyanka reminded the crowd of Indira Gandhi's crucial role in the creation of Himachal Pradesh. "It was due to Indira Gandhi that Himachal was created and put on the map of the country," she remarked, underscoring the Congress party's longstanding commitment to the state.
Gandhi urged the people to vote thoughtfully, considering what kind of politics and government they want for their state and country.
"Think deeply for two minutes before casting your vote. This vote is for your village, your city, your state, and your country. Make sure it counts," she concluded.
Vikramaditya Singh says I will Live up 100 per cent expectations for people of Mandi Lok Sabha constituency
Vikramaditya Singh, assured the crowd at a rally in Kullu that he is committed to fulfilling their expectations.
He confidently stated, "I assure you that I will 100% live up to everyone's expectations. My nomination papers have been filed, and we're determined to elevate Mandi's key issues to new heights."
Singh criticized the central government for inadequate support after the Beas River floods, highlighting the massive loss of lives and property.
"We’ve only received ₹300 crores from the Center despite losses worth thousands of crores. This has left people frustrated and angry."
Emphasizing development, he mentioned past Congress achievements, like the establishment of the Indian Institute of Technology in Mandi during the UPA government's tenure. "We've built a strong foundation, and now we aim to take development to new heights."
Drawing strength from Kullu MLA Sunder Thakur, Manali MLA Bhuvneshwar Gaud, Congress leaders from Banjar and Anni, he also took a swipe at the BJP, saying, "The BJP talks about religion and divisive issues instead of development. We believe in equal opportunities for all, without reservation based on religion."
Singh expressed his deep connection to the local culture and traditions. "We have unwavering faith in our culture. I visited Bijli Mahadev temple for blessings before this rally. Our development plans will respect and enhance our heritage."
He also addressed the BJP's campaign strategies, especially targeting Kangana Ranaut's comments. "Kangana Ranaut may talk about Himachal from Mumbai, but she doesn’t understand our issues. We are focused on real development, not just rhetoric."
On river management, he stressed its importance, mentioning the channelization of the Beas River as a top priority. "We've sent a proposal worth ₹1800 crores to the Central Water Commission for Kullu. This will be our number one priority including medical college in Kullu."
Singh thanked Priyanka Gandhi for her support and urged people to vote for Congress. "Let's move forward together. Vote strongly for the Congress party," he urged, ending with a rousing chant of "Jai Shri Ram."
In Sundernagar rally was addressed by Pratibha Singh, Kaul Singh Thakur, Sohan Lal Thakur, Prakash Chaudhary and others.
