NAGPUR/AKOLA: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing a massive gathering in Akola on Saturday, launched a fierce attack on the Congress party, especially targeting what he referred to as its “royal family.” In his speech, he accused the Congress governments in Telangana and Karnataka and the party-backed govt in Tamil Nadu of recovering Rs 700 crore through alleged corruption schemes, claiming they turned states into “ATMs” for the party’s elite.
Modi highlighted that his govt prioritised progress and integrity, citing significant investments in infrastructure, housing, and welfare programmes. He emphasised the development of the Vadhavan Port, poised to become the largest in India with an investment of Rs 80,000 crore, and underlined the benefits this would bring to Maharashtra and the nation.
In his address, Modi asserted that during Congress rule, states governed by the party served as “royal ATMs” for personal enrichment. Specifically, he alleged that the Congress administration in Telangana and Karnataka, along with Tamil Nadu, extracted vast sums under the guise of pre-poll expenses, further accusing them of perpetuating a culture of bribery and corruption.
Modi also expressed concerns about Congress’ alleged caste-based politics, claiming that it aimed to divide communities, preventing unity among Dalit, tribal, and OBC groups for political gain. He argued that such divisive tactics by Congress go back decades, stating that they tried to marginalise Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, denying him due recognition for his contributions.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed his commitment to upliftment efforts, citing his govt’s initiatives like Ayushman Bharat cards for seniors and the monumental work done to ensure housing for low-income families. Modi praised the people of Vidarbha for supporting the BJP over the past decade, which he said enabled these transformative projects.
Highlighting national security issues, Modi referred to the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, asserting that his govt finally implemented a unified Constitution, championing Dr. Ambedkar’s vision. Modi’s speech emphasised a future of integrity, calling upon Maharashtra’s citizens to avoid “scam-prone” parties like Congress and trust the BJP-led coalition for the state’s continued progress.