Rahul Gandhi in Gujarat updates: Narendra Modi's new motto is 'na bolunga, na bolne dunga', says Congress VP

We will be a pro-poor government, says Rahul

We wont promise 15 lakh to everyone. It wont be a government for 10 industrialists. It wont be a land grabbing government. It will be a government which will be listening to the “mann ki baat” of the common man," Rahul said while concluding his speech.

Rahul targets Modi over “man ki baat’

“Modi likes to tell his man ki baat. This is going on since the last 22 years. But he does not want people to protest. If they do so then men will be beaten up. Their women will be harassed,” Rahul said in Dhasa.

Modi failed to provide jobs to youth, claims Rahul

“Modi promised that two crore will get employment. But how many did people did get employment? I am giving a statistic: On each day, China will povide employment to 50,000 people. But Modi’s government cannot provide so many jobs even in one year,” Rahul Gandhi said.

Rahul Gandhi says Nano factory did not give any employment to anyone

“Have you every seen Nano car on the roads? There was no employment generation for the common man. Only land was taken away from five main villages for the Tata Nano factory. They were promised employment but none of them have got it. 6 lakh 50 thousand acres of land was taken away from common man,’ Rahul Gandhi claimed in Dhasa.

Rahul Gandhi targets Modi over Mallya

“There is a problem of farmer suicide everywhere. When there is loan burden, these farmers are forced to commit suicide. When they have a debt of Rs 20,000, 50,000 loan, they commit suicide. But when Mallya has a debt of Rs 9,000 crore, he does not commit suicide. Such people are enjoying in London,” Rahul said while tragetting Modi in Dhasa.

Rahul Gandhi reaches Dhasa, will be addressing a rally soon

However, before Rahul, Gujarat Congress Bharatsinh Solanki and state party in-charge Ashok Gehlot are addressing the gathering.

Click here for detailed coverage of Gujarat Assembly Election 2017

Congress calls Somnath temple controversy a ‘distraction from real issues’

“The planted controversy over CVP Rahul Gandhi’s entry in Somnath temple’s register is yet another attempt to distract the public from the real issues under this Govt,”  the Congress official Twitter handle said.

Rahul Gandhi’s question to Narendra Modi

Rahul promised to ask one question every day in the run up to the polls  His today’s question is: In 1995, Gujarat had a total debt of Rs 9.183 crore. In 2017, it has risen to 2,41,000 crore. This means every Gujarati has a debt of Rs 37,000 on his head. Why should the people of Gujarat suffer for your economic mismanagement and publicity?

Every community is up in arms against Modi, says Rahul

“For the first time I see people from every community coming on the streets to confront the government. The only people who are not doing so are the rich businessmen who fly private jets,” Rahul said.

Modi unwilling to discuss matters of national importance in Parliament, says Rahul

Congress vice-president accuses the prime minister of not bringing matters of national importance to the Parliament because the truth would have come out if matters were discussed in the Parliament. Rahul seeks explanation from the prime minister in the Rafale deal, asks on what basis was Rafale favoured over Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.

Modi worked in favour of Rafale, says Rahul

“Initially 136 air planes had to be bought and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited had to be given the contract. But suddenly Modi goes to France and while he changes the contract in Rafale’s favour, Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar was spotted buying fish at a Goa market, Rahul Gandhi said in Lathi

Modi does not want Parliament to run

“Modi does not want the Parliament to run as he does not want to discuss Jay Shah and Rafael deal,” Rahul Gandhi said. While concluding his speech, Rahul added that his government will truly listen to the poor unlike Modi.

Rahul Gandhi raises Jay Shah issue once again

“It is indeed like magic that Amit Shah’s company emerges. Modi says he does not want to be PM but instead wants to become India’s _chowkidaar. H_e says na khaunga na khane doonga..Do you really think Rs 50,000 can turn into Rs 80 crore rupees in three months? But interestingly the company closed down just within three years,” Rahul Gandhi told the gathering in Lathi

Rahul promises loan waiver

“We will waive off all farmer loans in just 10 days of coming to power,” says Rahul Gandhi in Lathi.

Corruption is part of everyday life in Gujarat, says Rahul

“He says he killed corruption through note ban.Can anything happen in Gujarat without bribing people?,” Rahul asked the gathering as the people answered in the affirmative.  Rahul added that everything is privatised in Gujarat .

Rahul Gandhi address a rally in Lathi 

“Modi did not like Rs 500, Rs 1000 notes so he banned them.. Did you see BMW owners in the serpentine lines? These rich people were converting their black money into white. It was only a plan to help the rich. Over 100 died but did it you get your promised Rs 15 lakh?” Rahul Gandhi said in Lathi.

Congress spokesperson Rnadeep Surjewala targets BJP over economic irregularities 

#Live #PressConference Randeep Singh Surjewala https://t.co/9gpJSEMtMW

— Gujarat Congress (@INCGujarat) November 30, 2017

Rahul Gandhi to address rally shortly in Lathi shortly

Rahul raises Patidar issue at Visvadar

At Visavadar, Gandhi referred to the 2015 quota stir in which 14 members of the Patidar community were killed in police firing and said if anyone raises his voice he either gets beaten up or has to face bullets in Gujarat.

“All the communities are raising their voice here against the government. But what do you get if you raise your  voice in Gujarat? You are beaten up, you have to face bullets,” Gandhi said. Visavdar is a Patidar-dominated constituency in politically crucial Saurashtra region.

PTI

Process to elect party president ‘rigged’ to favour Rahul Gandhi: Shehzad Poonawalla

As Rahul Gandhi gets ready to hold a series of rallies in Gujarat, he’s met with dissent within the party, with Maharashtra Congress secretary Shehzad Poonawalla questioning the process to elect the party president, calling it “rigged”, and saying he must first resign from his post. Poonawalla said he would also contest the election if it was conducted in a “genuine” manner. On Tuesday, he also wrote a letter to Rahul in this regard.

To read more, click here

Every Gujarati has a debt of Rs 37,000 crore: Rahul Gandhi

Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi said that the state debt is so large in Gujarat that every citizen in the state is carrying a debt of Rs 37,000 crore on him/her.

In pics: Rahul Gandhi interacts with traders, discusses the ‘issues’ they face

Congress VP Rahul Gandhi met and interacted with a delegation of traders in Amreli, Gujarat this morning regarding the issues they are facing. #Navsarjan_With_Congress pic.twitter.com/BvPM3KT1KH

— Congress (@INCIndia) November 30, 2017

Rahul Gandhi meets traders in Gujarat’s Amreli

In Narendra Modi bastion, Rahul Gandhi is being drummed up champion merely for showing up

Some conventional political analysts see in this election Rahul’s emergence as a formidable politician in his own right. There is nothing wrong if any person, let alone a politician, evolves in due course of time by dint of his hard work. And equally, one cannot grudge that a section of analysts find Rahul growing into a mature politician. These are subjective opinions which can be contested but have to be respected.

But that narrative is not limited just to Rahul’s newfound mojo, as yet unproven. It is being amplified by the national media, that is eager to prop up an alternative to Modi, as a one-on-one Rahul versus Modi fight, with the challenger being drummed up as champion merely for showing up for the bout.

To read more, click  here

Rahul Gandhi’s rally at Lathi set to begin shortly

Rahul Gandhi is scheduled to address a rally at Lathi at 11 am. The Congress vice-president had brought up the issue of Gujarat’s rising debt in a tweet on Thursday morning, and may focus on the issue again at the rally.

Explain rising debt, Congress asks BJP

How did Gujarat’s debt increase from Rs 9,183 crore in 1995 to Rs 2,41,000 crore in 2014 under BJP rule, Congress Gujarat state president Bharat Solanki asks Narendra Modi, retweeting Rahul Gandhi’s early morning post.

Mukul Sangma taunts BJP

When BJP pumps into Gujarat its entire leadership, central ministers and media minions to defend a forecast of 150 seats, you know @OfficeOfRG is making them nervous.

— Mukul Sangma (@mukulsangma) November 30, 2017

Want BJP to respond to Rahul Gandhi’s questions, says Congress

Congress spokesperson Deepender Singh Hooda said he hoped Modi and the BJP would answer Rahul Gandhi, after the latter said he would be asking one question a day, about ‘22 years of mis-governance’ in Gujarat. “We expect the Prime Minister and BJP to find time and answer the questions asked to them by Rahul Gandhi,” he said. “The BJP is working for the super rich and middlemen. The party’s (BJP) economic policy was at the cost of the poor.”

Mukul Sangma taunts BJP, says Rahul Gandhi is making them ’nervous’ in Gujarat

Meghalaya chief minister Mukul Sangma has said BJP’s party machinery working overtime proves they are nervous.

Rahul Gandhi’s itinerary for the day

Rahul Gandhi will be visiting Lathi, Gopinathji Mandir, Botad, Vallabhipur and Bhavnagar in Gujarat today. #Navsarjan_With_Congress pic.twitter.com/MJOuSueAPi

— Congress (@INCIndia) November 30, 2017

Why is Gujarat paying for your publicity, Rahul Gandhi asks Modi

22 सालों का हिसाब,#गुजरात_मांगे_जवाब

गुजरात के हालात पर प्रधानमंत्रीजी से दूसरा सवाल:

1995 में गुजरात पर क़र्ज़-9,183 करोड़।
2017 में गुजरात पर क़र्ज़-2,41,000 करोड़।
यानी हर गुजराती पर ₹37,000 क़र्ज़।

आपके वित्तीय कुप्रबन्धन व पब्लिसिटी की सज़ा गुजरात की जनता क्यों चुकाए?

— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) November 30, 2017

How long will it take to fulfil all promises, Rahul Gandhi asks Modi

“First question to the prime minister on the state of affairs in Gujarat — in 2012, promises were made to provide 50 lakh new houses but built 4.72 lakh in five years. Will the Prime Minister tell, whether it will take another 45 years to fulfil the promise?" Gandhi posted on Twitter.

Rahul Gandhi will ask Narendra Modi a question a day in run-up to Gujarat elections

Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala on Wednesday said Gandhi would pose one question every day to the prime minister about governance in Gujarat. On on Wednesday, he wrote on Twitter: “22 salon ka hisaab, Gujarat mange jawaab. (Gujarat demands answers for 22 years of BJP)."

Moments from Rahul Gandhi's public meeting in Amreli, Gujarat. #Congress_Aave_Chhe pic.twitter.com/LH1GZvMuk6

— Congress (@INCIndia) November 29, 2017

Congress will win in December. We will waive loans of farmers within 10 days. If govt will function, it will be for farmers, small and medium businesses and you. We will ask what you want and will run the govt accordingly.: Rahul Gandhi in Amreli #GujaratElection2017 pic.twitter.com/ClwtMU8wkn

— ANI (@ANI) November 29, 2017

He is a terrific actor. You will see he will shed tears a few days before election. He will cry for everything but not for farmers. He will also not cry when students have to shell out money for taking admission in college or people have to go to hospital: Rahul Gandhi on PM Modi pic.twitter.com/dJddts5Zle

— ANI (@ANI) November 29, 2017

Rahul Gandhi take dig at Jay Shah’s company

“Both demonetisation and GST were introduced at 12am. But one company emerged through the storm and converted Rs 50,000 into Rs 80 crore through magic. Do you think a honest businessman could do this in three months,” the Congress vice-president asked.

Taking a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rahul said: “First he (Modi) would say, ‘na khaunga, na khane dunga’. Now he says, ’na bolunga, na bolne dunga’.

Rahul Gandhi slams Narendra Modi over unemployment issue

Addressing a public meeting in Amreli, Congress vice-president said, “Narendra Modi promised in five villages in Gujarat that he would provide employment to the youth in Tata Nano factory. Not a single person has been given employment in these villages yet.”

Rahul said that Modi had promised to provide employment to 2 crore youth in state. “How many youth have you provided employment,” he asked.

Watch: Rahul Gandhi address public meeting at Amreli

LIVE: Rahul Gandhi addresses a public meeting at Amreli in Gujarat. #Congress_Aave_Chhe https://t.co/uYtu2XJtwL

— Congress (@INCIndia) November 29, 2017

Randeep Surjewala rejects ‘fabricated entry’ in Somnath temple registry

Watch: In-Charge Communications @rssurjewala debunks the fabricated entry of Rahul Gandhi at the Somnath Temple register. #ShameOnYouBJP pic.twitter.com/mq2exKYwPc

— Congress (@INCIndia) November 29, 2017

‘Sinner’ Rahul Gandhi must say who he is: Sambit Patra

They say this is a conspiracy but we say Congress is a conspiracy. The tip of the iceberg of their conspiracy is visible today. There is no conspiracy by anyone. You are a sinner, sin is yours. Rahul Gandhi must say who he actually is.: Sambit Patra pic.twitter.com/q4V7O2aNhF

— ANI (@ANI) November 29, 2017

Sambit Patra demands clarity on Rahul Gandhi’s religion

Why should there be a secretive air around Rahul Gandhi? He is one of the most important political person in Indian scenario. For Rahul Gandhi and Congress, religion is a matter of convenience and not devotion. Rahul Gandhi must answer this.: Sambit Patra, BJP Spokesperson pic.twitter.com/iEmdR2Osyo

— ANI (@ANI) November 29, 2017

Visuals from Rahul Gandhi’s rally in Junagadh

People of Gujarat accorded a warm welcome & came out in huge numbers for a rally that was addressed by Congress Vice President Shri Rahul Gandhi in Besan Vishwadhar, Dist. Junagadh in presence of congress leaders. #Congress_Aave_Chhe #GujaratElection2017#NavsarjanGujarat pic.twitter.com/PGjkYQhOWh

— MLC Dr.Pradnya Rajeev Satav (@SATAVRAJEEV) November 29, 2017

Glimpses from the public rally at Visavadar... #Congress_Aave_Chhe pic.twitter.com/XDqJphA6an

— Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) November 29, 2017

Rahul Gandhi is a ‘janeu dhari’ Hindu: Congress

Not only is Rahul Gandhi ji a Hindu, he is a 'janeu dhari' Hindu. So BJP should not bring down the political discourse to this level: RS Surjewala,Congress pic.twitter.com/YY5MKQEKt5

— ANI (@ANI) November 29, 2017

Subramanian Swamy claims ’entire family’ of Rahul Gandhi follows Christianity

#RaGaSomnathSelfGoal BJP MP @Swamy39 says Rahul Gandhi cannot announce he is a Hindu due to the fear of the Vatican #Dec18WithTimesNow pic.twitter.com/x7nvDK8poQ

— TIMES NOW (@TimesNow) November 29, 2017

Congress addresses controversy on Rahul Gandhi’s signature in Somnath temple

Here is the original signature of Rahul Gandhi at Somnath Temple.Very clearly. The other signature is written as 'Rahul Gandhi ji', why would he write ji? Don't know who wrote it. BJP doing what it does best, diverting from real issues: Deependra Hooda,Congress pic.twitter.com/CeRqJnlA6A

— ANI (@ANI) November 29, 2017

Mr. Modi had promised to provide cotton farmers prices of Rs. 2000. All they are getting today is Rs. 650: Rahul Gandhi #Congress_Aave_Chhe

— Congress (@INCIndia) November 29, 2017

Modi ignoring farmer woes, unemployment issues: Rahul Gandhi 

“Narendra Modi talks about progress, but not about farmers, He will not talk about Gabbar Singh Tax, how many people have been left unemployed. You tell us, from the audience, how many youth have received job opportunity because of Modi,” Rahul asked at a public meeting in Savarkundla.

He further asked: “Why doesn’t Modi admit he failed in providing employment?”

Rahul Gandhi slams Centre over Rafale deal, Jay Shah row

“On what basis did you snatched contract from government firm” Rahul asked the Centre as he criticised Rafale deal.

He said that the BJP was intentionally delaying Parliament session. “If (Winter Session) debate happens, the entire nation will know what happened in Rafale and what Amit Shah’s son (Jay Shah) did,” Rahul said.

Rahul Gandhi slams demonetisation

At Savarkundla, the Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi asked where was the money Narendra Modi promised to put in bank account-holders after demonetisation. Taking a dig at Modi, Rahul said that the prime minister apparently thought overnight, “I will move my wand and these 500 and 1000 notes will become raddi.”

BJP takes a dig at Rahul Gandhi for declaring him ’non-Hindu’

Rahul Gandhi is a non-Hindu and a "Shiv Bhakht"? Very impressive. No wonder he said earlier people go to temples and tease women. https://t.co/i5FjENcaBg

— GVL Narasimha Rao (@GVLNRAO) November 29, 2017

Watch: Rahul Gandhi holds a public meeting at Savarkundla

LIVE: Rahul Gandhi holds a public meeting at Savarkundla in Gujarat. #Congress_Aave_Chhe https://t.co/hUmFUznzJV

— Gujarat Congress (@INCGujarat) November 29, 2017

​

Congress VP Rahul Gandhi to the people of Gujarat on the lack of achievements by BJP. #Congress_Aave_Chhe pic.twitter.com/XkYWY7dbmg

— Congress (@INCIndia) November 29, 2017

Ahmed Patel, too, registered as ’non-Hindu’

Rahul Gandhi at Somnath temple

Image procured by Darshan Desai

Glimpses from the reception held at Visavadar, shortly before Rahul Gandhi addressed the public. #Congress_Aave_Chhe pic.twitter.com/9MmEYYi1pR

— Congress (@INCIndia) November 29, 2017

Rahul Gandhi’s entry in Somnath temple visitor’s book

Image procured by Darshan Desai

Controversy over Rahul Gandhi’s name in Somnath Temple’s entry register; According to rule, only non-Hindus are required to make an entry in the register pic.twitter.com/CeYRxLaVtM

— News18 (@CNNnews18) November 29, 2017

Citizens of Gir Somnath warmly received Congress VP Rahul Gandhi. #Congress_Aave_Chhe pic.twitter.com/TBTdLHVcg2

— Congress (@INCIndia) November 29, 2017

Congress’ public meeting at Visavadar in Gujarat

Visuals from Rahul Gandhi’s ‘darshan’ at Somnath temple

कांग्रेस उपाध्यक्ष राहुल गांधी ने सोमनाथ मंदिर में जलाभिषेक कर दर्शन-पूजन किया और गुजरात में अपनी यात्रा शुरु की #Congress_Aave_Chhe pic.twitter.com/ZopNhWOioK

— Congress (@INCIndia) November 29, 2017

Rahul Gandhi performs ‘jalabhishek’ at Somnath temple

Congress VP Rahul Gandhi starts his campaign with Darshan at Somnath Mandir #Congress_Aave_Chhe pic.twitter.com/jNehfwgugz

— Mumbai Congress (@INCMumbai) November 29, 2017

Here are the regions the three leaders are expected to campaign in today:

Rahul Gandhi: Visavadar, Savar Kundla and Amreli districts

Narendra Modi: Morbi and Prachi villages near Somnath, Palitana in Bhavnagar and Navsari in South Gujarat

Hardik Patel: Rajkot, Morbi, Somnath, Junagadh and Himmatnagar

As Rahul Gandhi and Narendra Modi campaign simultaneously in Gujarat on Wednesday, Patidar leader Hardik Patel is also expected to hold a rally in Rajkot, the constituency of Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani, Scroll  reported.

Congress leader Sachin Pilot addresses a press conference in Ahmedabad. Live:

Narendra Modi changes schedule due to Rahul Gandhi’s campaign

The  India Today  report also said that owing to Gandhi’s scheduled visit to the temple at around the same time, Modi will not be going for darshan at the temple, a visit he would not have otherwise missed.

Gandhi has visited 20 temples in his four-phase Navsarjan Yatra in Gujarat over 12 days, in the last two months.

Somnath temple security in a tizzy as Rahul Gandhi, Narendra Modi schedule visit on the same day

Rahul Gandhi is scheduled to arrive at Somnath temple for darshan at 1 pm, and around the same time, Narendra Modi is scheduled to address a public rally at Prachi, a town some 23 km from the temple,  India Today  reported

Rahul Gandhi’s last two-day campaign in Gujarat was on 24th November

Last week, apart from interacting with Dalits in Sanand, Gandhi also interacted with fishermen, doctors, teachers and villagers on his route covering Porbandar, Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Mahisagar and Dahod district.

Gandhi to conclude this leg of campaign in Bhavnagar tomorrow

On the second day of campaigning on Thursday, Gandhi will commence his rallies with a public meeting in Lathi. He is also expected to visit the cities of Dhasa, Gadhada, Barvala and Vallabhipur.  Rahul will have another public meeting Botad and he will complete his campaign with a sabha in Nari Chokdi in Bhavnagar.

After his darshan at Somnath Mandir on Wednesday, Rahul Gandhi will address a corner meeting at Visavadar in Junagadh, and attend two meetings in Amreli.

Rahul Gandhi attacks Narendra Modi on Twitter

The Congress vice-president said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in 2012, has promised to build 50 lakh new houses. In the next 5 years, Gandhi claimed, only 4.72 lakh houses were constructed.

Gandhi then asked Modi on Twitter if the promise will take 45 more years to be completed.

Earlier on Wednesday, the Congress vice-president tweeted to say that the people of Gujarat want answers for 22 years of BJP rule

22 सालों का हिसाब,
गुजरात मांगे जवाब।

गुजरात के हालात पर प्रधानमंत्रीजी से पहला सवाल:

2012 में वादा किया कि 50 लाख नए घर देंगे।
5 साल में बनाए 4.72 लाख घर।

प्रधानमंत्रीजी बताइए कि क्या ये वादा पूरा होने में 45 साल और लगेंगे?

— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) November 29, 2017

Rahul Gandhi will hold public meetings to discuss citizens’ problems along the road campaign on Wednesday

Congress VP Rahul Gandhi returns to Gujarat to visit the districts of Gir Somnath, Amreli & Bhavnagar. He will interact with citizens and hold public meetings regarding the issues they are facing. pic.twitter.com/ZrvhmzU7kN

— Congress (@INCIndia) November 28, 2017

The Congress vice-president will be arriving for the sixth time on a two-day visit to the poll-bound Gujarat on Wednesday. This is the first leg of Rahul’s election campaign in the state.

Image courtesy: Twitter@INCIndia

Rahul Gandhi will begin his campaign on Wednesday with a trip to Somnath Mandir, according to Congress’ Twitter account 

Rahul Gandhi is scheduled to continue the Gujarat election campaign in the districts of Visavadar, Savar Kundla and Amreli on Wednesday

Rahul Gandhi returns to the campaign trail in Gujarat. He will begin with seeking blessings at Somnath Mandir, and continue on to the districts of Visavadar, Savar Kundla and Amreli. #Congress_Aave_Chhe pic.twitter.com/EpMTP1wlYK

— Congress (@INCIndia) November 29, 2017

Updates for Wednesday, 29 November begin here.

Rahul Gandhi slams demonetisation, says only rich benefited from note ban 

Rahul Gandhi also fired a salvo against demonetisation, saying that Modi delivered the ‘magic’ that he promised by turning notes to paper on November, the day he made the demonetisation announcement. He went on to question why the rich were not affected by this decision, which Modi said was to eradicate black money.

“Tell me one thing, did you see any rich man, clothed in suits, in those lines in front of the banks? These rich men, these Indian thieves, made their black money white through this magic,” Rahul said. 

He went on to say that it was farmers, small businessmen and others who were affected by this decision and that lakhs lost their jobs, but the rich were barely affected. 

He made you stand in queues during demonetisation, he said at 8 at night that there will be magic. That your notes will no longer be legal tender, so that there is no black money. 

Tell me one thing, did you see any rich man, clothed in suits, in those lines in front of the banks? These rich men, these Indian theives made their black money white through ‘magic.’ 

Farmer purchase through cash, small businessmen interact with cash. These people were affected, lakhs lost jobs, but the rich were barely affected. 

​Rahul also questioned the government’s approach to loan waivers, saying “big industrialists had loans worth crores waived, but when our adivasi brothers and farmers ask for a loan waiver, Modi and Jaitley say it is not their policy.” He reprimanded the government for not doing enough for adivasis in Gujarat.   

He concluded that he would not give you ‘false promises’ of 15 lakh crores, but he promised that if Congress comes to power, no industrialist would get Rs 35,000 crores of the people’s money. “If someone does get the money, it will be the poor of Gujarat,” he added.

Modi’s magic only for rich industrialists**, says Rahul** 

“We gave crores employment through MGNREGA. All that money, Modi gave to one company in one state,” Rahul said about the Tata Nano project. “I want to ask you, do you see a Tata Nano anywhere in Gujarat? In the thousands of kilometres that I have travelled in Gujarat, I hope to see a Nano, but I don’t even see one. This is Modi’s magic, to make Rs 35,000 crore from the public funds disappear,” he added.

Modi promised Rs 40,000 crores to adivasis**, but only gave Rs 35,000 crore to Tata Nano project, accuses Rahul** 

At the Dahod rally, Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi told that audience that in 2007, Modi had said as the Gujarat chief minister that he would give Rs 15,000 crore for adivasis in Gujarat. “Five years later, in 2012, he said that he will give Rs 40,000 crore to the community. Five years later, he will probably say that he will give 1 lakh crore to adivasis,” Rahul quipped, adding that not even a rupee of these funds had been given to adivasis.

“On the other side he, in a minute, gave Rs 35,000 crore, land, your electricity, the water from River Narmada and other such resources to the company. All of this, to a select few industrialists,” he added, slamming Modi’s support to the Tata project.

Modi is scared ahead of Gujarat polls, alleges Rahul Gandhi 

“I read in the newspaper that BJP is assembling magicians for the Gujarat assembly election, but I wondered, they already have expert specialists who are magicians, then why bother getting more of them?” Rahul questioned while addressing Adivasi Adhikar Sabha in Dahod. “It is because BJP is scared that their ‘main magician’ is going to fail,” he said, poking a jab at prime minister Narendra Modi. He claimed that  Modi has ‘spun a lot of magic’ in Gujarat but he has not met with any of his poll promises.

Rahul Gandhi addresses Adivasi Adhikar Sabha in Dahod 

Rahul Gandhi lashes out at Narendra Modi govt on two-day visit to poll-bound Gujarat

See more photos from his rallies here

Before Rahul Gandhi reaches Santrampur, test your knowledge of Gujarat with a quiz

The Gujarat Assembly elections are almost upon us and that means it’s time to brush up on your knowledge of the western state. Test your knowledge here .

Alienated tribals lament BJP, Congress’ apathy, say they have lost hope from political parties

The intention of syncing the growth of each of the 4.33 crore voting individuals with that of the development of the state of Gujarat is evident in its ruling party’s campaign slogan Ho Chu Vikas, Ho Chu Gujarat (I am Vikas, I am Gujarat). The individual doesn’t become one with the grand collective as easily though, at least in the reality that lies beyond the spectre of rally and the sound of rhetoric.

One such reality is Gujarat’s tribals, nearly 15 percent of the total voters in the upcoming Gujarat Assembly elections. The census of 2011 recorded that the state of Gujarat was home to 89,17,174 Scheduled Tribes. In a BJP-dominated state, 16 out of 27 tribal seats across the state are Congress seats. To read into the mind of the tribal voter, Firstpost drove into the adiv__asi belt of South Gujarat and made stops at several villages in the districts Tapi, Navsari, Surat and Valsad.

After Lunawada rally, Rahul to visit Santrampur in Mahisagar district

Rahul Gandhi speaking live at Lunawada, Mahisagar 

Visuals of Rahul Gandhi interacting with citizens of Bayad, Aravalli 

Recap: Rahul Gandhi comforts ‘distressed’ Sanskrit teacher while campaigning in Gujarat

Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi, campaigning in Gujarat on Friday,  hugged a teacher who said she was upset with the BJP government after two decades of service.

During the interaction, Sanskrit professor Ranjana Avasthi burst into tears while narrating her experiences with the state government. Avasthi alleged the BJP government exploited her by introducing fixed income for teachers. The Congress leader then stepped off stage and hugged Avasthi.

Read more here

In Porbandar, an unhappy fishermen community may harm BJP’s chances

Bharat Bhai Modi, president of Porbandar Machhimar Boat Association, on behalf of fishermen community, explained his stance to Rahul. Bharat Bhai has been with the BJP for quite a long time. He was the party’s Porbandar district president. On this backdrop, it could be gauged which way the political wind is blowing in the state.

It is being asked whether the president of Porbandar Machhimar Boat Association is going to switch sides. After the rally, Bharat Bhai said, “We are with the BJP. But, when it comes to the community, we can even go to Pakistan for talks.”

Full analysis here

After Bayad, Rahul Gandhi to head for Lunawada in Mahisagar district

Visuals of Rahul Gandhi from his visit to Dahegam earlier today

People of Dehgam, Gandhinagar welcomed Congress VP #RahulGandhi. #Congress_આવે_છે pic.twitter.com/C5NQAKhxTJ

— Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) November 25, 2017

Rahul Gandhi mocks Narendra Modi over delay in Winter Session

Speaking in Bayad, Aravalli district, Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi mocked Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “na khaaonga, na khaane doonga” (Won’t be corrupt, not allow others to be corrupt). “His new slogan seems to be ’na bolonga, na bolnedunga’ (won’t talk, nor will let others speak),” Gandhi said referring to the delay in Parliament Winter Session, which will now take place between 15 December to 5 January.

The Winter Session normally takes place in November. “This year the doors of Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha will open after the Gujarat polls. This is because prime minister Modi doesn’t want to discuss the Rafale deal or Jay Shah’s company,” Gandhi claimed.

What has BJP given to you (people of Gujarat) in the last 22 years? asks Rahul Gandhi

Rahul Gandhi slams Modi govt over unemployment

“Unemployment rates in Gujarat are highest today in the last eight years,” said the Congress vice-preisdent.

Rahul Gandhi further slams Narendra Modi over the Rafale deal

Gandhi asks a series of questions: “Did he (Narendra Modi) or did he not increase the price of Rafale aircrafts? Why did he take away the contract from the designated company and gave it to a company known to him? And did he follow the due procedure of following the deal through the cabinet?”

He demanded answers over the Rafale controversy and claimed the Winter Session of Parliament was postponed to after Gujarat polls as he doesn’t want to confront these questions.

Rahul Gandhi slams Narendra Modi over demonetisation, GST

Referring to GST as Gabbar Singh Tax, Gandhi said all small traders and businessmen were hit adversely by the move. “Narendra Modi destroyed these businessmen and ensured they were unemployed.”

On demonetisation, “When you people were standing in the lines, did you see any industrialist standing in the queue with you? In all this, Amit Shah’s son Jay Shah converted Rs 50,000 into Rs 80,000 crore.”

UPA govt spent Rs 33,000 crore on MNREGA; Modi spent that amount on Tata Nano

Slamming Narendra Modi, Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi said PM has spent Rs 1,30,000 crore on Tata Nano factories. “Your electricity, water goes to Tata Nano’s factories. Thousands of acres has been snatched from you and given to them. After all this, have you even seen a Tata Nano?”

Rahul Gandhi begins addressing rally in Bayad

Watch: Rahul Gandhi in Bayad

Rahul Gandhi reaches Bayad 

Rahul Gandhi is given a rousing welcome at the Khedut Adhikar Sabha in Bayad amid chants of “Rahul_ji__,_ you move forward, we are right behind you”.

Rahul Gandhi hits out at BJP over Rafale deal, Jay Shah

Speaking at Gandhinagar, the Congress vice-president slammed BJP chief Amit Shah for the delay in Parliament’s Winter Session and said it was done to ensure it is held after the Gujarat election to avoid answering questions on Jay Shah and the Rafale deal. ““This time (parliament) session will be held after Gujarat elections. Do you know the reason? Amit Shah’s son converted Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 80 crore. The second reason is that 136 Rafale aircraft had to be bought. Narendra Modi went to France and changed the contract for his friend.” 

#RahulGandhi hits out at PM Modi on #RafaleDeal, #JayShah while addressing rally in #Dahegam : https://t.co/AjHLe1pvoN#Gujarat #GujaratElections2017 pic.twitter.com/QCzUrZUBDl

— Tv9 Gujarati (@tv9gujarati) November 25, 2017

Rahul Gandhi reaches Dahegam

People of Dehgam, Gandhinagar welcomed Congress VP Rahul Gandhi. #Congress_આવે_છે pic.twitter.com/yaBLrpjRop

— Congress (@INCIndia) November 25, 2017

‘Gujaratis looking to Congress for change’

Congress Party has been receiving a tremendous response from people of Gujarat. Fed up of 22 yrs of BJP's misrule, Gujaratis are now looking towards the Congress for change. #Congress_આવે_છે

— Telangana Congress (@INCTelangana) November 25, 2017

Meanwhile, Nirmala Sitharaman says Congress ‘failed’ to play role of responsible Opposition in Gujarat

Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday said the Congress in Gujarat has “failed” to play the role of a responsible Opposition.

The BJP leader also targeted Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi over the alleged stalling of projects in Gujarat during the Congress-led UPA government at the Centre, and said he needs to answer certain questions related to that.

“Instead of replying to these questions, he keeps asking more questions. It is the responsibility of the opposition party to answer questions related to its government when it was in power at the Centre,” she told reporters. Sitharaman was campaigning for the BJP for the next month’s polls.

Rahul Gandhi meets ex-Gujarat CM Madhavsinh Solanki

Former CM of Gujarat Madhav Singh Solanki warmly received Congress VP Rahul Gandhi at his residence on day 2 of Gujarat Yatra. #Congress_આવે_છે pic.twitter.com/7WQtrwT8Ok

— Congress (@INCIndia) November 25, 2017

Congress leader Jitu Patwari says support for Rahul reflects BJP’s days in Gujarat are about to end

गुजरात में राहुल जी को मिल रहा अपार जनसमर्थन भाजपा के अंत और बुरे दिनों के अस्त का संकेत है, भाजपा को हराकर गुजरात “सच्चे दिन” लाने वाला है..। #Congress_આવે_છે

— Jitendra (Jitu) Patwari (@jitupatwari) November 25, 2017

Congress’ Gujarat campaign has been a test case of myopic political behavior. Rahul Gandhi, on whom rests the party’s future, has not only shown a marked inability to understand the bigger picture, he has also steadily eroded Congress’ strengths.

Read the full article here

Rahul Gandhi slams Vijay Rupani over Tricolour

On Friday, slamming Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani for not accepting a giant tricolour made by Dalits citing lack of space, Rahul Gandhi said he would have accepted even a 50,000 km-long national flag even if he had little space to keep it.

The Congress vice-president also said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Rupani have space in their hearts only for a few industrialists, but not Dalits, farmers and poor.

Gandhi was addressing a gathering of Dalits at Dalit Shakti Kendra, a vocational training institute near Sanand town in Ahmedabad district, where he accepted a 125 x 83.3 feet tricolour weighing 240 kg.

The national flag was earlier meant to be presented to Rupani. In August, the DSK had even carried the tricolour to Gandhinagar. However, officials at the collectorate had allegedly refused to accept it citing lack of space.

“This flag is not yours alone, but belongs to the entire country. He (Rupani) said he has no place to keep the flag. Even if you gave me a 15 km or 50,000 km-long flag, and even if I had one inch space to keep it, I would have taken it,” Gandhi said.

“Like you, I have a huge space in my heart for this flag. It is the mindset of the BJP chief ministers or the prime minister that they have no space for this flag or your hard work. But they have the entire Gujarat for 5-10 industrialists, who can get any amount of space they want in Gujarat or across India,” Gandhi said.

With inputs from PTI

Rahul Gandhi conveys his condolences to the family of Parikshit Mistry in Gandhinagar

Rahul Gandhi visited the home of MP and former AICC Gen. Secretary Madhusudan Mistry ji to convey his condolences on the untimely passing away of his son Parikshit Mistry. pic.twitter.com/qeSAfe2unj

— Congress (@INCIndia) November 25, 2017

Rahul Gandhi visits family of late AICC secretary, Mirza Irshad Baig in Gandhinagar

CVP Rahul Gandhi visited the residence of former MP and AICC Secretary Mirza Irshad Baig ji, who passed away recently, to convey his condolences. pic.twitter.com/Z1i8Os4hPi

— Congress (@INCIndia) November 25, 2017

Rahul Gandhi’s schedule:

11.15 am – 11.25 am: Swagat at Dahegam, Gandhinagar

12.10 pm – 12.40 pm: Navsarjan Jan Sabha, Bayad, Aravalli

1.05 pm – 1.15pm: Swagat at Sathamba, Bayad, Aravalli

2 pm – 2.30 pm: Navsarjan Jan Sabha, Indira Maidan, Lunawada, Mahisagar

3.15 pm – 3.45 pm: Navsarjan Jan Sabha, Mandir Ground, Satrampur, Mahisagar

4.05 pm – 4.25 pm: Swagat with speech, Margada Chokdi, Sukhsar, Fatepura, Dahod

​4.50 pm – 5.10 pm: Navsarjan Jan Sabha, Muvada Chokdi, Jhalod, Dahod

5.30 pm – 5.40 pm: Swagat at Limdi, Jhalod, Dahod

6.15 pm – 7.15 pm: Navsarjan Jan Sabha, College Ground, Dahod

Rahul Gandhi offers condolences in Egypt mosque attack

Condemning the ghastly incident in the North Sinai region of Egypt which killed 235 people, Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi expressed his condolences to the people affected and said, “We stand with Egypt and its people today. Our thoughts are with the innocent victims and their families.”

Rahul Gandhi’s complete schedule for the day

Congress VP Shri Rahul Gandhi ji will be visiting and having interactions with people in Gandhinagar, Aravalli, Mahisagar, and Dahod today #Congress_આવે_છે pic.twitter.com/1ZD7yVuN7h

— Gujarat Congress (@INCGujarat) November 25, 2017

Congress spokesperson Shaktisinh Gohil ‘proud’ of Rahul Gandhi over his hug to teacher

This is why I am proud of #RahulGandhi @OfficeOfRG. He respects people.He listens.He reaches out to people. #Gujarathttps://t.co/UDE9HHgfFp

— Shaktisinh Gohil MP (@shaktisinhgohil) November 24, 2017

BJP IT head Amit Malviya claims Rahul Gandhi faking unemployment numbers in Gujarat

Rahul Gandhi caught faking unemployment numbers in Gujarat.. He reduced the number of unemployed in the state by a whooping 20 lakhs in a matter of hours. He has been blatantly lying on several other issues but usually the quick media has done no fact check! Why? pic.twitter.com/nwovgBEHEv

— Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) November 25, 2017

Recap: Rahul Gandhi says Winter Session delayed to avoid debate on Jay Shah, Rafale deal before Gujarat polls

Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi hit out at rival BJP for ‘purposely delaying’ the Winter Session of Parliament to evade the Opposition’s questions ahead of crucial elections.

Rahul alleged that the BJP wanted to avoid discussion on issues like the alleged corruption charges on BJP national president Amit Shah’s son Jay, the Rafale deal and the Centre’s treatment of the Doka La standoff.

“They have closed Parliament…every year Parliament opens in November, this year it will not open in November. You see, it is not going to open before elections. Why? Because they don’t want Jay Shah, Rafale deal and Doka La issues to be discussed in Parliament before Gujarat elections,” he told a gathering of Dalits in Sanand, Ahmedabad on Friday.

Recap: Rahul Gandhi met public health officials in Ahmedabad yesterday

Representatives of the public health sector had a great interaction with Congress VP Rahul Gandhi in Ahmedabad. #Congress_સાથે_ગુજરાત pic.twitter.com/seXN6yGaJ8

— Congress (@INCIndia) November 24, 2017

Rahul Gandhi to begin rally at 11.15 am at Gandhinagar

​Congress vice-president will visit the following places today: 

Dahegam, Gandhinagar (11.15 am)

Bayad, Aravalli district

Sathamba, Aravalli district

Lunawada, Mahisagar district

Santrampur, Mahisagar district

Fatehpur, Dahod district

Jhalod, Dahod district

College Ground, Dahod (6.15 pm)

Travel map of Rahul Gandhi’s schedule for today

Day 2 of Gujarat Yatra takes Congress VP Rahul Gandhi to the districts of Gandhinagar, Aravalli, Mahisagar, and Dahod to meet citizens. #Congress_આવે_છે pic.twitter.com/caz9TedZrg

— Congress (@INCIndia) November 25, 2017

Recap: Rahul turns emotional, hugs lecturer on listening to her woes

In a gesture that touched many hearts, Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi on Friday hugged a part-time woman lecturer after listening to her plight during an interactive session with the teaching community of Gujarat.

Ranjana Avasthi, a PhD holder, was among the lecturers, professors and schoolteachers invited to attend a session with Gandhi, who is on a two-day campaign tour of Gujarat ahead of the first phase of Assembly polls next month.

With a choked voice, Avasthi, who claimed to be a part -time teacher, explained how several lecturers in Gujarat like her are being “denied” their basic right, be it adequate remuneration, medical leaves or pension.

“Ever since I completed my PhD in Sanskrit in 1994, we have been living in a miserable condition. Even after 22 years of service as a part-time lecturer, our salary is just Rs 12,000 per month.”

“We were not even granted maternity leave. We have seen some of the worst days of our life during this service,” said Avasthi with a heavy heart.

“Now, the government is planning to annul our entire service by offering us Rs 40,000 salary under a fixed-pay regime. Like others, we also wanted to retire with pension benefits to be able to live a respectable life. But now, there is no hope. Only we know what kind of struggle we did and what kind of pain we have gone through,” said a teary-eyed Avasthi.

Moved by Avasthi’s representation, Gandhi, who was holding his mike and listening to her plight, paused for a moment and said, “Sometimes, you can’t answer some questions with words.” The 47-year-old Congress MP then put down his mike on the dais and walked towards the lecturer, sitting on the middle row of the hall, to console her.

–PTI

Moments from CVP Rahul Gandhi's interaction with Ahmedabad's teaching community. #Congress_સાથે_ગુજરાત pic.twitter.com/l1UthENPPn

— Congress (@INCIndia) November 24, 2017

Rahul Gandhi mocks Narendra Modi over Hafiz Saaed’s release

Narendrabhai, बात नहीं बनी. Terror mastermind is free. President Trump just delinked Pak military funding from LeT. Hugplomacy fail. More hugs urgently needed.https://t.co/U8Bg2vlZqw

— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) November 25, 2017

Rahul Gandhi will be addressing several public rallies today

#TopStory: Congress Vice-President Rahul Gandhi to address various public rallies in Gujarat #GujaratElections2017 (File Pic) pic.twitter.com/Gj7qNn6eVt

— ANI (@ANI) November 25, 2017

Visuals of Rahul Gandhi’s visit to Ahmedabad yesterday

Day 1 of Gujarat Yatra comes to a close as Rahul Gandhi addresses a public meeting in Nikol, Ahmedabad. #Congress_સાથે_ગુજરાત pic.twitter.com/ZTjdMq3QHh

— Congress (@INCIndia) November 24, 2017

Rahul Gandhi to visit Gandhinagar, north Gujarat districts today

On Saturday, Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi is set to visit various villages and towns on his journey covering Gandhinagar, Aravalli, Mahisagar and Dahod districts.

Rahul will visit Dehgam in Gandhinagar district and then leave for Aravalli’s Bayad region for a corner meeting. He will have another meeting in Lunawada in the newly-formed Mahisagar district and yet one more at Santrampur.

Rahul will then reach Dahod district and address a gathering of Congress workers. More meetings have been planned in Dahod to be followed by a public meeting. He will leave then leave for New Delhi from Vadodara.

Updates for 25 November, 2017 begin here.

Rahul Gandhi woos fisheries ministry in Gujarat

Reaching out to the fishermen community in Gujarat ahead of the next month’s Assembly polls, Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi on Friday promised to create a separate ministry for fisheries if the party comes to power at the Centre.

He criticised the BJP government in Gujarat for stopping the subsidy given to fishermen to buy diesel for their boats.

Targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Gandhi alleged that the fishermen from Gujarat are now forced to venture deep into the sea because of the pollution caused by 10-15 industrialists, who are “Modiji’s friends”.

Arjun Modhwadia shares photograph of Rahul’s meeting with marine autoparts’ manufacturers

Rahul Gandhi visited Palghar Marine Engineering Works in Porbandar, and met with manufacturers of machine & boat parts. #Congress_સાથે_ગુજરાત pic.twitter.com/8PlRCi883T

— Arjun Modhwadia (@arjunmodhwadia) November 24, 2017

The Fishermen Community in Porbandar warmly received Congress VP Rahul Gandhi. #Congress_સાથે_ગુજરાત pic.twitter.com/8DrUM4zmTV

— Congress (@INCIndia) November 24, 2017

Rahul Gandhi’s challenge will be to win Hindu hearts

The principal tasks before Rahul Gandhi as Congress president will be to evolve strategies for countering Hindu nationalism without alienating the Hindus and ensuring Other Backward Classes (OBC) politics doesn’t stump the party. These two tasks dwarf the challenges most media commentators have identified for Rahul — those of forging alliances with regional players and building the party organisation.

मछुआरों ने कहा था कि जो काम किसान करता है वही काम मछुआरा करता है, मछुआरों के लिये अलग मंत्रालय होना चाहिए और हमारी सरकार बनेगी तो हम ये काम करके दिखायेंगे #Congress_સાથે_ગુજરાત pic.twitter.com/OIbTuLk49i

— Congress (@INCIndia) November 24, 2017

Congress wants to hear your mann ki baat: Rahul Gandhi

“Congress party and I do not want to tell you our mann ki baat. We want to hear your mann ki baat,” said Rahul Gandhi.

“The Congress will win the elections in December. Our doors will be open for you when that happens. Your mann ki baat will be heard within those doors then,” said the Congress vice-president.

Notebandi ke samay jab aap line mein lagte the to kya kisi suit boot waale ko dekha tha? Main bata ta hoon kyun nahi dekha kyunki vo pehle se hi bank ke andar AC mein baithe the peeche se ghus ke: Rahul Gandhi in Porbandar #GujaratElections pic.twitter.com/BVr6JGrpph

— ANI (@ANI) November 24, 2017

All of the work in Gujarat done only for 5 to 10 industrialists: Rahul

“In the last few years, all of the work in Gujarat has been done for just five to ten industrialists,” said Rahul. “And those industrialists contributed to campaigning for Narendra Modi later on,” he added.

“There should be a separate ministry for fisheries in Gujarat. And if Congress comes to power in Gujarat, we will do this,” he said.

“But the most important fact is that Gujarat does not belong to five or ten industrialists. It belongs to the farmers and fishermen,” he said.

Big industrialists supported by Modi polluted water bodies: Rahul Gandhi

“Did you (fishermen) cause the pollution in the water bodies? No, the big industrialists did that,” Rahul Gandhi said, adding that Narendra Modi supported such big industrialists.

He also said that because 90 percent of the colleges in Gujarat were privatised, the fees for education in the state was too high.

Rahul Gandhi lashes out at demonetisation

The Congress vice-president said that Narendra Modi used demonetisation to convert the black money held by many people into white money.

“Congress will pay attention to all your needs and problems,” Rahul said as he addressed the fishermen community in Porbandar.

Narendra Modi gave Rs 33,000 crore for Tata Nano factories: Rahul Gandhi

“Congress had given Rs 33,000 crore for NREGA. Narendra Modi gave the same amount for Tata Nano,” said Rahul Gandhi in Porbandar.

“You lost your land, water, electricity for Tata Nano. And now, you are telling me that you did not see Tata Nano anywhere,” said the Congress vice-president.

“Are you driving Tata Nano? The truth is that if a big industrialist asks for money from Narendra Modi, he is ready to give Rs 33,000 crore to that one person. But if every fisherman approaches him, they will not even get Rs 300 crore,” he said.

Rahul Gandhi’s soft Hindutva

Rahul Gandhi’s temple visits are being seen as a soft Hindutva strategy of the Congress. In fact, the Congress feels that the BJP’s image of Hindutva hurts it in Gujarat. The Muslim community is completely on Congress’ side of Gujarat. Therefore these visits are an attempt to come on par with the BJP so that the BJP’s attempt of polarisation are not successful.

Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi at Kirti Mandir in Porbandar #Gujarat pic.twitter.com/rfU3qWxg7Z

— ANI (@ANI) November 24, 2017

CVP Rahul Gandhi visits Kirti Mandir, the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi ji. #Congress_સાથે_ગુજરાત pic.twitter.com/VXr2SFvcBn

— Congress (@INCIndia) November 24, 2017

The VP visited Palghar Marine Engineering Works in Porbandar, and met with manufacturers of machine & boat parts. #Congress_સાથે_ગુજરાત pic.twitter.com/plOhMOX0CM

— Congress (@INCIndia) November 24, 2017

Rahul Gandhi arrives in Porbandar

​The Congress vice-president is interacting with fishermen at Navsarjan Maachimaar Adhikar Sabha in Porbandar.

Rahul Gandhi to hold five ‘sabhas’ today in Porbandar, Ahmedabad

Shri Rahul Gandhi ji will be holding sabhas in Porbandar and Ahmedabad today. #Congress_સાથે_ગુજરાત pic.twitter.com/coXkOh6cYL

— Gujarat Congress (@INCGujarat) November 24, 2017

Courting Hardik, ridiculing GST: Are Rahul Gandhi’s blunders hurting Congress’ prospects?

The Congress had always served as the benchmark against whom political parties have measured their fortunes. The GoP until recently held the majority in Upper House and even in its apparent ill health, continues to govern a clutch of states. Narendra Modi-led BJP may seem invincible right now but as the cliché goes, even a week is a long time in politics, leave alone couple of years when the prime minister must return to seek a mandate.

This makes it difficult to understand the power anxiety that is driving Congress into making a series of blunders. It is hardly prudent to put a tax reform in motion, debate extensively in Parliament to make it “better” and more “suitable for the common man”, and then wash hands off it during implementation to tap into the discontent caused by the disruption.

It is tough to believe that Congress mandarins were oblivious to the possibility that GST implementation blues are temporal, and when the disruption eventually settles the BJP will be more than happy to claim the sole credit for it. A few years down the line, the Congress might even be remembered as the party that disowned a major tax reform for electoral gains, for that is the nature of narratives.

Congress’ Gujarat campaign has been a test case of such myopic political behavior. Rahul Gandhi, on whom rests the party’s future, has not only shown a marked inability to understand the bigger picture, he has also steadily eroded Congress’ strengths.

Read full article here

Rahul Gandhi to meet fishermen first in Porbandar

After landing at the Porbandar airport tomorrow morning, Gandhi would start his tour by meeting local fishermen to understand their problems, a release by the party said.

In the afternoon, Gandhi would visit the DSK near Sanand. He will then arrive in Ahmedabad to take part in two separate interactive sessions, one with doctors and medical professionals and another with lecturers and primary school teachers.

Late evening, he will address a gathering in the Nikol area of the city, the release said.

–PTI

Congress vice-president to visit Gandhinagar, Dahod districts tomorrow

On Saturday, Rahul Gandhi will visit various villages and towns on his journey covering Gandhinagar, Arvalli, Mahisagar and Dahod districts.

–PTI

Tricolour to be given to Rahul Gandhi made by Dalit Shakti Kendra members in Sanand

The highlight of his two-day tour is the visit to the Dalit Shakti Kendra (DSK), a vocational training institute run by Dalit activists, near Sanand town of Ahmedabad district on Saturday.

According to the founder of the DSK, Martin Macwan, the giant flag was made as part of their movement to end untouchability in the country.

“This flag, made from khadi and weighing around 240 kilograms, was prepared by around 100 DSK students from Dalit and backward communities. Though we went to Gandhinagar to hand it over to the chief minister on August 11, he did not meet us. Officials at the Gandhinagar collectorate also refused to accept it, saying they don’t have the space to keep it,” Macwan said. 

“It was disheartening because we just wanted to spread the message and wanted to urge the chief minister to do his bit in Gujarat to end the practice of untouchability. When Rahul Gandhi learned about it, he informed us that he will accept the flag when he will visit the DSK tomorrow (Saturday),” Macwan added.

–PTI

Rahul Gandhi to interact with fishermen, doctors, teachers, villagers

Apart from interacting with Dalits in Sanand, Gandhi would interact with fishermen, doctors, teachers and villagers on his route covering Porbandar, Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Mahisagar and Dahod district during his two-day visit.

After landing at the Porbandar airport on Saturday morning, Gandhi would start his tour by meeting local fishermen to understand their problems, a release by the party said.

–PTI

Rahul Gandhi to accept tricolour made by Dalits earlier rejected by Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani

​

Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi will be on a two-day campaign tour of Gujarat from tomorrow, during which he will accept a giant tricolour made by the Dalit community.

The national flag was meant to be presented to Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani a few months ago but officials in the state capital had reportedly refused to accept it citing lack of space.

“During his visit, Rahul_ji_ will accept a giant national flag, measuring 125 feet in length and 83 feet in height, from Dalit students of the Kendra. He will also address locals and Dalits of surrounding areas at the centre,” Gujarat Congress spokesperson Manish Doshi said.

“This is the largest national flag ever made. Though it was meant to be presented to Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani, he had refused to accept it when Dalits went to Gandhinagar in August. When Rahul_ji_ learned about it, he conveyed his desire to accept the flag with full honour,” Doshi added.

–PTI

Rahul Gandhi’s travel map for the day

Congress VP Rahul Gandhi travels from Porbandar to Ahmedabad, where he will interact with members of the fishermen, Dalit, public health and teaching communities.  #Congress_સાથે_ગુજરાત pic.twitter.com/zvF3ihm6fr

— Congress (@INCIndia) November 24, 2017

Rahul Gandhi’s schedule for today

10.45 am: Visit to the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi: Kirti Mandir, Porbandar

11.15 am: Meeting with fishermen at Fishing Harbour Ground, Porbandar

2.30 pm: Dalit Swabhiman Sabha at Dalit Shakti Kendra, Nani Devtati, Sanand – Bavla Road, Ahmedabad

4.15 pm: Interaction with representatives from the public health sector at Thakorebhai Desai Hall, Law Garden, Ahmedabad 

5.30 pm: Interaction with representatives from the teaching community at Shahid Veer Mangal Pandey Hall, Ahmedabad

7.30 pm:  Public meeting at Open Ground, Opposite Kunj Mall, Nikol, Ahmedabad

Rahul Gandhi on fifth visit to Gujarat

Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi will visit Gujarat on Friday and Saturday to address election rallies, his fifth visit after Assembly polls were announced in the state next month.

Rahul will arrive on Friday morning at Mahatma Gandhi’s birthplace Porbandar and address a public rally, focussing on issues of the fishing community.