"Nobody takes Rahul Gandhi seriously": Nitin Gadkari backs BJP ahead of elections

Union minister Nitin Gadkari on Sunday criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, stating that "nobody takes him seriously." Speaking in an interview with PTI, Gadkari dismissed Gandhi's remarks on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and reaffirmed confidence in the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance's success in the upcoming November 20 Maharashtra assembly elections.

Responding to Gandhi's comment comparing PM Modi to US President Joe Biden for "memory loss," Gadkari termed the remarks as irresponsible. “The way Rahul Gandhi speaks, it’s evident that his comments hold no weight, and people should ignore them,” he said.

Addressing the challenges faced by the BJP-led Mahayuti after a disappointing Lok Sabha performance, Gadkari said voters were misled by opposition narratives. He cited the opposition's claims about constitutional amendments as baseless propaganda, asserting that neither the BJP nor any of its allies would consider altering the Constitution drafted by Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar.

Gadkari emphasized the Mahayuti's development-driven agenda, dismissing controversies around divisive slogans like "batenge toh katenge." He reiterated the BJP's stance on unity, stating that religion or caste differences should not overshadow national priorities. "We are one nation, and our fight is against terrorism and Naxalism," Gadkari said, downplaying any rift with Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, who had criticized such remarks.

On Gandhi's push for a caste census, Gadkari redirected the focus to economic issues. He stressed that welfare for villages, the poor, and farmers transcends caste or religious divisions. “The poor, irrespective of caste or religion, face the same challenges,” he added.

Gadkari concluded by expressing optimism about the Mahayuti alliance under PM Modi’s leadership. He asserted that voters in Maharashtra have recognized the opposition’s misinformation campaign and are now ready to support the BJP’s vision for development and unity.