PM Modi accuses INDIA Bloc of spreading division through caste rhetoric

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at the inauguration of the Grameen Bharat Mahotsav 2025 in New Delhi, criticized opposition leaders for allegedly fostering division within society by exploiting caste dynamics. Without naming names, Modi appeared to target Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and other members of the INDIA bloc, accusing them of weakening the nation’s social fabric.

“We must reject these divisive conspiracies and work together to preserve the shared heritage of our villages,” Modi said, emphasizing the importance of unity.

He highlighted his government’s rural development efforts since 2014, projecting villages as pivotal to achieving the vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047.

Focus on Rural Development

The Prime Minister outlined key initiatives aimed at improving rural living standards. He noted that programs like Swachh Bharat Mission, PM Awaas Yojana, and Jal Jeevan Mission have delivered basic amenities such as toilets, housing, and clean drinking water to millions in rural areas. Additionally, over 1.5 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs now provide healthcare services, supplemented by digital telemedicine through e-Sanjeevini.

The government has also prioritized financial support for farmers, disbursing ₹3 lakh crore under the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi and expanding Kisan Credit Cards to livestock and fish farmers. Modi pointed to a significant increase in agricultural loans and the establishment of over 9,000 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) to support rural entrepreneurship.

Achievements and Challenges

Modi cited a recent State Bank of India study showing a steep decline in rural poverty, from 26% in 2012 to under 5% in 2024. He attributed this progress to his government’s focus on rural infrastructure and economic empowerment. Consumption in rural India has nearly tripled since 2011, reflecting improved living standards, he said.

Criticizing previous governments, Modi claimed they neglected villages, particularly SC, ST, and OBC populations, leading to migration, poverty, and a widening rural-urban gap.

“While some have chanted slogans about eradicating poverty for decades, our efforts are delivering tangible results,” he remarked.

Vision for the Future

The Grameen Bharat Mahotsav, themed “Building a Resilient Rural India for a Viksit Bharat 2047,” runs until January 9, featuring workshops and discussions on rural innovation and self-reliance. The event aims to showcase India's progress in bridging the urban-rural divide and strengthening the rural economy.

Opposition's Stance: Congress Launches Campaign Against BJP

Meanwhile, the Congress has launched the ‘Jai Bapu, Jai Bhim, Jai Samvidhan’ campaign, accusing the BJP of disrespecting BR Ambedkar and undermining the Constitution. Party spokesperson Pawan Khera called for Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s resignation over remarks deemed insulting to Ambedkar.

The campaign, which will culminate in a rally at Ambedkar’s birthplace in Mhow, seeks to mobilize citizens against what the Congress describes as BJP’s anti-democratic and anti-Dalit actions.

Khera accused the BJP of trying to replace the legacy of national icons like Gandhi, Nehru, and Ambedkar with their own narratives. He alleged that the BJP harbors intentions to rewrite the Constitution and diminish Ambedkar’s contributions, stating, “We will not tolerate this anymore.”

As both sides sharpen their rhetoric, the discourse reflects the growing intensity of political and ideological battles ahead of the 2025 general elections.