Congress President Rahul Gandhi Alleges Jagannath Rath Yatra Halted for Adani’s Family

Congress National President Rahul Gandhi, speaking at a mass public rally in Baramunda, unleashed a sharp political offensive against both the current Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) administration and the previous Biju Janata Dal (BJD) government in Odisha. He accused both parties of prioritising corporate interests over public welfare, effectively handing over the state’s resources and future to a select few billionaires.

Billionaires Controlling Odisha’s Future, Says Gandhi

Rahul Gandhi accused both the BJP and BJD regimes of systematically favouring a chosen corporate elite, resulting in the exploitation and neglect of farmers, tribals, Dalits, and labourers. Though he avoided naming specific industrialists, Gandhi pointed to the disproportionate power of a particular business conglomerate operating across Odisha and neighbouring Chhattisgarh, alleging that government decisions were being scripted to suit their interests.

Rath Yatra Controversy: “Procession Halted for Corporate Cronies”

In one of his most sensational claims, Gandhi alleged that during the revered Rath Yatra, the procession of the deities was deliberately paused to allow the smooth passage of individuals associated with corporate sponsors. He criticised this act as symbolic of the broader betrayal of Odisha’s heritage and people. “This is not your government,” he told the crowd, “It’s a billionaire’s government — one that’s out to steal your land, forests, and future.”

Congress President Highlights Widening Economic Divide

Emphasising the growing inequality in the state, Gandhi said he met with farmers, women, and tribal communities who reported losing land and livelihood due to government-backed projects without fair compensation. He reaffirmed the Congress party’s support for tribal rights and referenced the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA), contrasting it with what he described as the government’s intimidatory approach.

BJP Accused of Constitutional Subversion and Electoral Manipulation

Gandhi expanded his criticism beyond Odisha, accusing the BJP of corrupting democratic institutions at the national level. Citing Maharashtra’s recent election irregularities, he claimed over one crore “ghost voters” were registered, leading to a serious erosion of electoral integrity. He alleged the Election Commission was acting as a tool of the ruling party and warned that similar manipulation could happen in the upcoming Bihar assembly elections.

Grave Concerns Over Women’s Safety and Government Inaction

Raising the issue of gender-based violence, Gandhi presented alarming figures — over 40,000 women missing in Odisha — and blamed the government for its apathy. He condemned the ruling administration for ignoring the health, safety, and education needs of ordinary people while the wealthy sent their children to elite private institutions and moved around in luxury.

Congress Positions Itself as Defender of Odisha’s Common People

Concluding his speech, Rahul Gandhi reiterated the Congress party’s commitment to fighting against exploitation and inequality in Odisha. Framing the political battle as one between the impoverished masses and a handful of super-rich elites, Gandhi promised continued support for those marginalised by corporate-friendly policies. “We are with the people of Odisha,” he said, “in their fight to reclaim their land, rights, and dignity.”