Pune: Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched a scathing attack on Lok Sabha Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi over his remarks at the recent ‘Bharat Summit 2026’ in Hyderabad. Addressing a public gathering in Pune, Shah accused the Congress leader of attempting to tarnish India’s image on international platforms, asserting that defaming the nation would not help the grand old party return to power.
According to a report by ABP News, Shah alleged that the Congress, frustrated by three consecutive electoral defeats, was venting its anger through such events. “The event was named Bharat Summit, but left-wing propagandists from across the country were invited. The Congress prince went there and made anti-India statements, tarnishing the country’s image before an international audience,” Shah claimed during his address.
Offering political advice to the Congress leader, the Home Minister suggested that Gandhi should focus on grassroots realities rather than global forums. “You will not get power by defaming India on international platforms. If you want power, stop going on foreign trips and start visiting villages in India. Only then is there some possibility for you,” Shah stated.
He further used the platform to contrast the governance records of the two national parties. Shah claimed that the Narendra Modi-led government has maintained a spotless, corruption-free record over the past 12 years, taking a direct dig at the alleged Rs 12 lakh crore scams that took place during the previous decade-long Congress rule at the Centre.
The political slugfest stems from the recently held ‘Bharat Summit 2026’ in Telangana’s capital, where Rahul Gandhi fiercely criticised the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). During the summit, Gandhi accused the current regime of crony capitalism and attempting to undermine democratic institutions, asserting that the Opposition’s fight is rooted in truth and non-violence.
As election campaigns intensify in Maharashtra, the war of words between the BJP and Congress continues to escalate, with top leaders from both camps trading heavy barbs over governance, political integrity, and the global perception of Indian democracy.