Rahul Gandhi seeks opinion of labour sector for Congress manifesto, Part 02

Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi has been holding interactive sessions across the country, an attempt to maximise participation from the people in order to strengthen the Congress's election manifesto. "We will draft the manifesto after taking everybody's suggestion into consideration," he said. On Thursday, he spoke to the members of the labour union representatives of unorganised and organised sectors and said that the main problem was that there was no way that people's power was prevalent in the Parliament. "Our selection of candidate will be completely transparent so that your voice will be heard in the parliament," he said.

Rahul Gandhi seeks opinion of labour sector for Congress manifesto, Part 01

Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi has been holding interactive sessions across the country, an attempt to maximise participation from the people in order to strengthen the Congress's election manifesto. "We will draft the manifesto after taking everybody's suggestion into consideration," he said. On Thursday, he spoke to the members of the labour union representatives of unorganised and organised sectors and said that the main problem was that there was no way that people's power was prevalent in the Parliament. "Our selection of candidate will be completely transparent so that your voice will be heard in the parliament," he said.

Sonia Gandhi at Kishanganj (Bihar)

Sonia Gandhi at Kishanganj targets BJP: They only want the chair, the power, at any cost
Congress President and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi on Thursday laid the foundation stone of a centre of the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) at Bihar’s Kishanganj. While addressing the gathering after the function, she cautioned the people against the threat of communal forces and stressed for the need to wage a battle against them. “There are forces at present which are trying to derail Mahatma Gandhi's ideology. We must fight them and that is the greatest challenge before us” said Sonia Gandhi.
Highlighting the policies of the central government, the UPA Chairperson said, “We brought in, for the first time in our history, the Right to Information Bill and Lokpal Bill to fight corruption. We also implemented Mahatma Gandhi NREGA to guarantee jobs for the rural poor and the Food Security Act to make sure that no one in our country lives in hunger. About 80 crores of our people, both in rural and urban areas, will have the benefits of the Food Security Act by providing subsidized food grains. We also gave focus to improve the health care facilities.. Sarva Siksha Abhiyan and Right to Education ensure free education to school going children”.
“The UPA Government implemented various schemes and programmes for the minority communities and the benefits of the same are now visible. Because of our progressive measures, the enrolment of children in madrasas, especially the girls, has shown an upsurge in the recent times and I am happy for it. We accepted the recommendations of the Sachar Commission. For the development of Waqf properties for the community welfare, particularly for Muslims in India, we have established the National Waqf Development Corporation Limited, which was inaugurated yesterday in Delhi by our Prime minister” said Sonia Gandhi on central govt’s minority-welfare policies.
“When a state develops, the country also develops and we all must be happy. We are going through a critical periods and some hard questions need to be answered. So we all must be united to go forward, fight divisive forces and put in our efforts for development. It is a battle of ideologies. We always believe in Secularism and we always fought to protect its values and will continue to do so. The country will develop and people will live happily only if there is brotherhood and harmony”, said the Congress President.
In an indirect dig at BJP, the Congress leader continued, “There are some forces today, which do not have faith in our glorious culture and its secular ethos. They want to divide the nation and the people on communal lines. They indulge in spreading the poison of hatred and disharmony. They only want the chair; they want just power, at any cost. We all must be vigilant against such forces”.
“Congress has been fighting to bring in happiness and prosperity in the lives of all sections of the people – the minorities, Adivasis, minorities, downtrodden and women”, she added.
“I just want to say that your struggles are Congress party's struggles and your fight is the Congress party's fight” said Sonia Gandhi while concluding her speech.
Full text of the speech of Sonia Gandhi at Kishanganj, Bihar

Sonia Gandhi at Kishanganj, Bihar indirectly targets BJP, says it wants just the chair

Congress President and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi on Thursday laid the foundation stone of a centre of the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) at Bihar's Kishanganj. While addressing the gathering, she cautioned the people against the threat of communal forces and stressed for the need to wage a battle against them. "There are forces at present which are trying to derail Mahatma Gandhi's ideology. We must fight them and that is the greatest challenge before us" said Sonia Gandhi.

Rahul Gandhi interacts with labour union representatives in Delhi on Congress manifesto

Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi has been holding interactive sessions across the country, an attempt to maximise participation from the people in order to strengthen the Congress's election manifesto. "We will draft the manifesto after taking everybody's suggestion into consideration," he said. On Thursday, he spoke to the members of the labour union representatives of unorganised and organised sectors and said that the main problem was that there was no way that people's power was prevalent in the Parliament. "Our selection of candidate will be completely transparent so that your voice will be heard in the parliament," he said.

Rahul Gandhi in Chhattisgarh wants to encourage intense interaction with ordinary workers

Rahul Gandhi: Those who think that Congress can be finished would be wiped out
RAIPUR: Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi, visited Chhattisgarh and interacted with the party workers and motivated grass root Congressmen on Wednesday. He promised them to bring about a big change in the working of the Congress after the upcoming post Lok Sabha polls by giving a voice to the party workers.
The Congress Vice President said that strengthening the party at the grass-root level by encouraging intense interaction with ordinary workers would be the main objective of the Congress after the general elections. The party would listen to the workers “more attentively” and decide the future course of action across the country, he said. Rahul Gandhi interacted with the representatives of various frontal organisations of the Congress and spoke for about eight minutes in the local Indoor Stadium. Nearly three thousand party workers attended the programme.
"Be prepared for a big change as no one is more important in the Congress than its worker," said Rahul Gandhi while addressing party workers at Balbeer Juneja Indoor stadium. "After the elections, I would ensure that workers are heard in the party and their views taken seriously," added the Congress leader. “A new class has been created by the Congress in last 10 years. The size of this class is huge – 70 crore. This class is above the lower income group, but also below the middle class (as far as earning is concerned)… people who are working as plumbers, taxi drivers, carpenters etc. belong to this class,” he said and added, “the new class would be economically absorbed in the middle income group if the Congress was re-elected. This class is the strength of the country.”
Rahul Gandhi reiterated that Congress was not merely a political party but a thought that could not be wiped out. While referring to the BJP’s ‘Congress-mukt-Bharat- campaign, the Congress Vice President commented that those who think that Congress can be finished would be wiped out. “The BJP leaders say they want to remove Congress from the country. But the Opposition does not understand the history, that we are not an organisation, we are an ideology; the ideology of brotherhood, respect and love. No one can wipe out Congress and whoever tries to do so, will vanish," he said.
“After winning the elections, the main focus of the Congress would be the 70 crore Indians who are now above the poverty line but still not part of the country's middle class. Our policies in the past 5 to 10 years have helped get crores of people out of poverty. Now we will ensure that these 70 crore people are uplifted to the middle class," Rahul Gandhi said. He also described various initiatives like MGNREGA, RTI and Adhaar Card as tools empowering people.
Rahul Gandhi exhorted party workers to make people aware of them. "I've given you the tools to win elections. Spread the word and explain to the people what these initiatives mean for them and I assure that no one can defeat you," he said. Rahul Gandhi also urged workers to spread out to every nook and corner of the state and ensure the party's victory on all the 11 seats. "We will not give an inch to the opposition," he said.
Earlier, the Congress leader, as part of his ongoing campaign to take views of the common people for the Congress party's election manifesto, held a closed door meeting with representatives of the panchayats and farmers. Senior state leaders and office bearers were also present at the meeting.

Sonia Gandhi pays homage to Mahatma Gandhi on 66th death anniversary

New Delhi: Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, Congress President and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi paid floral tribute to Gandhi at his memorial Rajghat. A series of functions are being organized throughout the country to mark the occasion.

Sonia Gandhi at Waqf function to launch NAWADCO in New Delhi

Sonia Gandhi: We must be cautious of communal forces who want to weaken our secular culture
New Delhi: Congress President and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi said that one must be cautious of communal forces who want to weaken our secular culture. She was talking on the occasion of the launch of the National Waqf Development Corporation Limited (NAWADCO), a new Central Public Sector Enterprise under Ministry of Minority Affairs. Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh inaugurated the Corporation.
“We must be cautious of communal forces who want to weaken our secular culture. Even small disturbances can harm our harmony and brotherhood” said the Congress President. “We believe in unity in diversity... Our system guarantees protection of rights of all citizens including the minorities. It is the responsibility of the administration to protect the secular fabric of our country and to ensure equal opportunities to minorities” said Sonia Gandhi. ”We must know that inclusive growth is necessary for overall development and to bring happiness in the lives of the people of all sections” added the UPA Chairperson.
“Empowering the women belonging to the minorities is utmost important. The UPA Government has therefore launched ROSHNI to provide education, skill development, technical knowledge, to spread awareness about the benefits of government schemes and to provide banking facilities. This will boost their morale and self confidence” further said Sonia Gandhi.
“We witnessed a ten-fold increase in the expenditure for the minority affairs, in the last ten years, whether it is Prime Minister’s 15-point programme for minorities, allocating 15% funds for minorities in all flagship government programmes or for improving the quality of education. Our focus has been to ensure equality for minorities” emphasised the Congress President.
This Corporation will prove to be an important institution for the development of Waqf properties for the community welfare particularly for Muslims in India. The establishment of NAWADCO is a follow up of Sachchar Committee recommendation. India has the largest number of Waqf properties in the world. There are more than 4.9 lakh registered Auqaf (waqf properties) and the current annual income from these properties is about Rs.163 crores. Sachar Committee has estimated that such properties, if properly developed, with a minimum return of 10%, would be capable of generating an income of Rs.12000 crore per annum.
NAWADCO will facilitate and mobilize financial resources for the development of Waqf properties for community development purposes in a joint venture with the State / Union Territory Waqf Boards and the Mutawallis. The Waqf Boards and the Muthawallis were not having the financial resources to develop the properties leading to encroachments. The Central Government has recently enacted the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2013.This will make administration of waqf properties transparent and will provide an enabling environment for development and utilization of waqf lands for welfare of minorities.

Sonia Gandhi at the launch of NAWADCO, stresses for the need of protecting secularism

New Delhi: Congress President and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi is talking on the occasion of the launch of the National Waqf Development Corporation Limited (NAWADCO), a new Central Public Sector Enterprise under Ministry of Minority Affairs. “We must be cautious of communal forces who want to weaken our secular culture. Even small disturbances can harm our harmony and brotherhood” said the Congress President. “We believe in unity in diversity... Our system guarantees protection of rights of all citizens including the minorities. It is the responsibility of the administration to protect the secular fabric of our country and to ensure equal opportunities to minorities” said Sonia Gandhi. ”We must know that inclusive growth is necessary for overall development and to bring happiness in the lives of the people of all sections” added the UPA Chairperson.

Rahul Gandhi makes it clear in his first interview: I am not scared of any one, we are battle ready

Rahul Gandhi makes it clear in his first interview: I am not scared of any one, we are battle ready
New Delhi: In his first ever interview to a television channel, Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi said that he is not scared of any one. He also took on the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi by saying that Gujarat government was involved in 2002 riots.
On a question whether the Congress leader is afraid of having a direct fight with Narendra Modi, Rahul Gandhi replied, “In my life I have seen my grandmother die, I have seen my father die, I have seen my grandmother go to jail and I have actually been through a tremendous amount of pain as a child when these things happen to you, what I had to scared of I lost, there is absolutely nothing I am scared of”

“I have an aim, I have a clear aim in my mind and the aim is that I do not like what I see in Indian politics, it is something that is inside my heart. It is like in our mythology when they talk about Arjun, he only sees one thing, he does not see anything else, you asked me about Mr. Modi you ask me about anything and the thing that I see is that the system in this country needs to change, I don't see anything else and I am blind to everything else. I am blind because I saw people I love destroyed by the system. I am blind because the system everyday is unfair to our people”, he added in his interview on Times Now.
While responding to 1984 Sikh riots as well as Gujarat riots, the Congress Vice President said, “The fact of the matter is that innocent people died in 1984 and innocent people dying is a horrible thing and should not happen. The difference between Gujarat and 1984 was that the Government of Gujarat was involved in the riots,” and continued, “The difference between the 84 riots and the riots in Gujarat was that in 1984 the Government was trying to stop the riots. I remember, I was a child then, I remember the Government was doing everything it could to stop the riots. In Gujarat the opposite was the case. The Government in Gujarat was actually abetting and pushing the riots further. So there is a huge difference between the two things.”

When asked about the criticism by BJP leader Subramanian Swamy on his educational qualification, Rahul Gandhi said, "He (Swamy) has been attacking my family for 40 years... He has probably seen my degree, I have given a sworn affidavit saying I that I have got these degrees, If I am lying on these affidavits let him take the legal process and solve it.“

While on personal criticism the Congress leader said, "I respond by understanding why I am being attacked. Beat me to death, but I will keep asking questions that are relevant to the system.. Keep throwing stones at us. I am being attacked because I am doing things dangerous to the system". "Unfairness makes my blood boil. That's at the heart of my politics," added Rahul Gandhi.

While responding to questions about dynasty politics, the Congress leader categorically said, "I am absolutely against the concept of dynasty. But it happens in BJP, SP, DMK and Congress everywhere." "I am absolutely against the concept of dynasty. Anybody who knows me knows that and understands that. But you are not going to wish away dynasty in a closed system. You have to open the system," he added. To a question as to what was his view of BJP's Prime Ministerial candidate, he said, "I think, we will defeat the BJP in the next elections....I will win the election. I am reasonably confident." We are Battle ready, of course. We're going to win” Rahul Gandhi said while ending his one and half hour long interview on a confident note.

Rahul Gandhi's first ever interview on Times Now, Part 05

Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi's gave interview on Times Now channel. He talked about the contemporary political affairs as well as about Congress party. "We have brought the RTI and empowered people and we cannot call ourselves superpower until women is empowered. And that's something that one has to discuss. We empowered people in every movement." Rahul said in the interview.

Rahul Gandhi's first ever interview on Times Now, Part 04

Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi's gave interview on Times Now channel. He talked about the contemporary political affairs as well as about Congress party. "We have brought the RTI and empowered people and we cannot call ourselves superpower until women is empowered. And that's something that one has to discuss. We empowered people in every movement." Rahul said in the interview.

Rahul Gandhi's first ever interview on Times Now, Part 03

Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi's gave interview on Times Now channel. He talked about the contemporary political affairs as well as about Congress party. "We have brought the RTI and empowered people and we cannot call ourselves superpower until women is empowered. And that's something that one has to discuss. We empowered people in every movement." Rahul said in the interview.

Rahul Gandhi's first ever interview on Times Now, Part 02

Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi's gave interview on Times Now channel. He talked about the contemporary political affairs as well as about Congress party. "We have brought the RTI and empowered people and we cannot call ourselves superpower until women is empowered. And that's something that one has to discuss. We empowered people in every movement." Rahul said in the interview.

Rahul Gandhi's first ever interview on Times Now, Part 01

Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi's gave interview on Times Now channel. He talked about the contemporary political affairs as well as about Congress party. "We have brought the RTI and empowered people and we cannot call ourselves superpower until women is empowered. And that's something that one has to discuss. We empowered people in every movement." Rahul said in the interview.

Rahul Gandhi at Wardha: stresses for the the need to give more power to local leaders part 04

Wardha: Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi visited Sewagram in Wardha, Maharashtra and interacted with the representatives of the Panchayat Leaders from across the country to seek their views on the party manifesto for the Lok Sabha elections. Earlier Rahul Gandhi had made similar interactions at Bangalore, Bhopal and Amethi.

Rahul Gandhi at Wardha: stresses for the the need to give more power to local leaders part 03

Wardha: Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi visited Sewagram in Wardha, Maharashtra and interacted with the representatives of the Panchayat Leaders from across the country to seek their views on the party manifesto for the Lok Sabha elections. Earlier Rahul Gandhi had made similar interactions at Bangalore, Bhopal and Amethi.

Rahul Gandhi at Wardha: stresses for the the need to give more power to local leaders part 02

Wardha: Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi visited Sewagram in Wardha, Maharashtra and interacted with the representatives of the Panchayat Leaders from across the country to seek their views on the party manifesto for the Lok Sabha elections. Earlier Rahul Gandhi had made similar interactions at Bangalore, Bhopal and Amethi.

Rahul Gandhi at Sewagram stresses for the need of empowering local bodies

Rahul Gandhi at Sewagram emphasises on the need to give more power to local leaders
Wardha: Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi visited Sewagram in Wardha, Maharashtra and interacted with the representatives of the Panchayat Leaders from across the country to seek their views on the party manifesto for the Lok Sabha elections. Earlier Rahul Gandhi had made similar interactions at Bangalore, Bhopal and Amethi.
"Earlier the manifesto used to be made behind the closed doors. This time we are making the manifesto after speaking to the people, women, SC/STs and whatever suggestions you give will be included in the manifesto. If our party comes to power, we will implement whatever is there in the manifesto. I thank you all for coming from far distances” he started his opening remarks. He added that the power lies within a handful of people.
“Rajiv Gandhi had talked about telecom revolution. You all are aware of it and I am sure all of you will have your mobile phones in your pockets. There was a time, when MPs only had the quota for telephone connections. It was their discretion to allot telephones and if you don’t know any MP, they it was very difficult to get a phone connection. It was like a monopoly of some selected people. The aam aadmi could not get any connection” recalled Rahul Gandhi and then continued, “How Rajiv Gandhi ji broke this monopoly? He opened up the telecom system for the people. PCOs were opened across the country, in all villages, and that created a revolution. We also must open up the political system, like we did it for telecom. Rajiv Gandhi had a vision to open up the system by Section 73 and 74. He wanted the power to reach grass roots”.
“There is 50% reservation at local bodies for women now. But the Bill to grant 33% reservation for women in Parliament and Assemblies are still pending. We cannot reform the political systems without ensuring that the pradhans and local bodies are properly empowered” emphasised the Congress leader.
“We must be successful in three important facts, if we want to call ourselves a super power” said the Congress leader and explained, “Democracy is our greatest strength. We will have to strengthen it further by taking it to the grass root, by empowering the aam aadmi. MPs, MLAs, local bodies must be properly empowered. They must have their rights and powers. Secondly, 50% of India are women. India can only be half-strong, half-proud, half-powerful if we do not empower this 50%. Finally, there must be systematic measures to provide employment to the youth. Without that we cannot become superpower” and the audience welcomed it with loud applauds.
“We will not stop, till we ensure that aam aadmi is empowered” said Rahul Gandhi while concluding his remarks.
The Panchayat leaders spoke about the education system, land mafia and other issues that needed the attention from the Centre. Representatives from the adivasi community, NGOs and gram panchayats were present at the interaction.

Rahul Gandhi at Wardha: stresses for the the need to give more power to local leaders part 01

Wardha: Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi visited Sewagram in Wardha, Maharashtra and interacted with the representatives of the Panchayat Leaders from across the country to seek their views on the party manifesto for the Lok Sabha elections. Earlier Rahul Gandhi had made similar interactions at Bangalore, Bhopal and Amethi.

Rahul Gandhi in Amethi takes a dig at AAP, says he won’t advertise the work done by him

Rahul Gandhi on becoming PM: If Congress comes to power the MPs elect me, I will consider it
Amethi: Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi who is on a two-day visit to his parliamentary constituency Amethi, indicated on Thursday that he would accept the prime minister post if the elected members want so after a Congress win. Accompanied by his sister Priyanka Gandhi-Vadra, the Congress vice-president arrived on a two-day visit to his parliamentary constituency yesterday.
"In the Congress, elected MPs select the Prime Minister. If our party comes to power after the election and the MPs elect me, then I will definitely consider it," Rahul Gandhi said while responding to a specific query whether he would be willing to shoulder the Prime Minister's responsibility.
"To select a Prime Minister is the right of the MPs and it should stay with them. Selecting a nominee before polls is not a democratic culture, but part of a personality cult," Rahul Gandhi said, and cited the example of Dr Manmohan Singh's election process to buttress his argument. "He was selected by the elected representatives as, in Congress, there is no system of naming the prime ministerial candidate before polls," added the Congress leader.
Rahul Gandhi said at the same time that there were several leaders in his party's ranks who could occupy the Prime Minister's post. These include P Chidambaram, Salman Khurshid, and Digvijaya Singh, besides his mother Sonia Gandhi and him.
Earlier, the Congress MP from Amethi also took a dig at Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Kumar Vishwas, comparing him with a bhopu (trumpet) who had "come to Amethi today and would go back tomorrow.'' Rahul Gandhi also made light of the AAP leader's remarks challenging him to retain his parliamentary seat, saying he had "a love affair'' with the constituency. "Mera to Amethi se prem ka rishta hai. Bahut log aate jaate rehte hain'' (many people have come and gone, but I have a love affair with Amethi,'' he said.
Rahul Gandhi said he had not been advertising the work done by him in his constituency, as he had been advised by his father not to "trumpet'' his achievements. "I am according topmost priority to the expansion of highways network to facilitate industrialization,'' the Congress leader said. He also pointed out that over 12 lakh women had been provided work under the Self-Help Group scheme.
The Congress leader also alleged that Akhilesh Yadav's government in Uttar Pradesh had been putting obstacles in his efforts. "They are now threatening our plans on power supply and road-construction in the constituency,'' said Rahul Gandhi. The Congress vice-president reiterated his party's position on naming its prime ministerial candidate.

Rahul Gandhi visits Amethi, says it is his home and family

Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi began his two-day visit to his parliamentary constituency Amethi on Wednesday. Rahul Gandhi said that the Congress party has done good work for the benefit of thousands of women and also in the development of national highways. The Congress leader, however, admitted that one thing which has been lacking in Amethi is electricity and roads barring national highways.

Rahul Gandhi visits Amethi, says Congress does not talk, but act

Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi began his two-day visit to his parliamentary constituency Amethi on Wednesday. The Congress Vice-President said the Congress does not talk but act. Rahul Gandhi reached along with his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra at Fursatganj in the evening and met people near the airport. He later invited an old woman to join him as he left the airport with his sister seated in the car behind. The woman, who hailed from Rampur, said Rahul Gandhi had stayed in her house to which the Congress leader, who nodded, said his relationship with her is old.

Rahul Gandhi visits Amethi with Priyanka Gandhi, says Congress does not talk, but act

Rahul Gandhi visits Amethi with Priyanka Gandhi, says Congress does not talk, but act

Amethi (UP): Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi began his two-day visit to his parliamentary constituency Amethi on Wednesday. The Congress Vice-President said the Congress does not talk but act.

Rahul Gandhi reached along with his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra at Fursatganj in the evening, walked a little distance on road and met people near the airport. He later invited an old woman to join him as he left the airport with his sister seated in the car behind. The woman, who hailed from Rampur, said Rahul Gandhi had stayed in her house to which the Congress leader, who nodded, said his relationship with her is old. "We don't believe in such things...Our habit is to deliver," said Rahul Gandhi, in a brief chat with newspersons.

"A good ambience is out here in Amethi. I have an old relationship with the people of Amethi.. Amethi is like my home and it is my family", said Rahul Gandhi. He added that the Congress party has done good work for the benefit of thousands of women and also in the development of national highways. Rahul Gandhi, however, admitted that one thing which has been lacking in Amethi is electricity and roads barring national highways. "We have faced difficulties on these issues as these fall under the jurisdiction of the state government," said Rahul Gandhi.

The Congress MP said that despite funds provided by the Centre to the Uttar Pradesh government the development of power sector in the state and in Amethi is not upto the mark. He also said some more developmental works are being executed for which he had come to inaugurate.

Rahul Gandhi announced a 200-bed hospital in Tiloi area, and said that people of the area would get medical facility in a better way after it is complete. The Congress leader said the Centre has done a lot of work in Amethi. "We worked on self-help groups of women, constructed highways. The only shortcoming was that we could not work in the field of power as it is related to the state government and Congress is not in power here," he said.

"To construct the national highways is the work of the Centre, we have constructed them... But constructing other roads is the work of the state. Funds are being sent by the Centre continuously, but it is not being utilised properly” added Rahul Gandhi. "Whether it is employment or the Petroleum Institute, lot many works have been done by the Centre," he said.

After meeting people near the airport, both, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi, headed for Jais. They met people on their way. At Akelua crossing some locals met the Congress leader and complained about bad roads. Rahul Gandhi later inaugurated district Congress office at Gauriganj.

Rahul Gandhi interacts with women representatives on Congress Manifesto part 05

Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi interacted with representatives of women from various sections organised by All-India Mahila Congress in Bhopal on Monday as a part of preparation of party's manifesto for the Lok Sabha elections. A number of prominent women and representatives of self-help groups have also been invited to attend the meeting. In his opening remarks, Rahul Gandhi said "There is a lot of talent here. I have come here to listen to you speak.. When I was young, the boss of our household was my grandmother. So I firmly believe women and men are equal and there should be equality".

Rahul Gandhi interacts with women representatives on Congress Manifesto part 04

Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi interacted with representatives of women from various sections organised by All-India Mahila Congress in Bhopal on Monday as a part of preparation of party's manifesto for the Lok Sabha elections. A number of prominent women and representatives of self-help groups have also been invited to attend the meeting. In his opening remarks, Rahul Gandhi said "There is a lot of talent here. I have come here to listen to you speak.. When I was young, the boss of our household was my grandmother. So I firmly believe women and men are equal and there should be equality".

Rahul Gandhi interacts with women representatives on Congress Manifesto part 03

Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi interacted with representatives of women from various sections organised by All-India Mahila Congress in Bhopal on Monday as a part of preparation of party's manifesto for the Lok Sabha elections. A number of prominent women and representatives of self-help groups have also been invited to attend the meeting. In his opening remarks, Rahul Gandhi said "There is a lot of talent here. I have come here to listen to you speak.. When I was young, the boss of our household was my grandmother. So I firmly believe women and men are equal and there should be equality".

Rahul Gandhi interacts with women representatives on Congress Manifesto part 02

Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi interacted with representatives of women from various sections organised by All-India Mahila Congress in Bhopal on Monday as a part of preparation of party's manifesto for the Lok Sabha elections. A number of prominent women and representatives of self-help groups have also been invited to attend the meeting. In his opening remarks, Rahul Gandhi said "There is a lot of talent here. I have come here to listen to you speak.. When I was young, the boss of our household was my grandmother. So I firmly believe women and men are equal and there should be equality".

Rahul Gandhi interacts with women representatives on Congress Manifesto part 01

Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi interacted with representatives of women from various sections organised by All-India Mahila Congress in Bhopal on Monday as a part of preparation of party's manifesto for the Lok Sabha elections. A number of prominent women and representatives of self-help groups have also been invited to attend the meeting. In his opening remarks, Rahul Gandhi said "There is a lot of talent here. I have come here to listen to you speak.. When I was young, the boss of our household was my grandmother. So I firmly believe women and men are equal and there should be equality".

Rahul Gandhi: If you empower women, they can do anything

Rahul Gandhi: Every woman is an asset for India, we need to create opportunities for them
Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi interacted with representatives of women from various sections organised by All-India Mahila Congress in Bhopal on Monday as a part of preparation of party's manifesto for the Lok Sabha elections. A number of prominent women and representatives of self-help groups have also been invited to attend the meeting.
In his opening remarks, Rahul Gandhi said “There is a lot of talent here. I have come here to listen to you speak.. When I was young, the boss of our household was my grandmother. So I firmly believe women and men are equal and there should be equality”.
Striking a chord with the audience, the Congress leader said, “Women don't need anyone's protection; they need to be given their right and a place”. He then narrated a personal experience; “Once, I saw someone in Amethi beating up a woman... I stopped him asked him why? He said she hadn't cooked for him. That man had no concept of equality”
“All you must have felt that you're being pulled back at some point of time. We must remove that feeling in India” added Rahul Gandhi and added, “Violence can be physical and mental. Violence comes from an attitude that women are inferior. Yes, we have to fight violence but we must also change attitudes”
“I have learnt a lot from my grandmother and mother, but I have also learnt a lot from women in my constituency Amethi. One thing I have learnt is if you empower women, they can do anything” further said the Congress leader. “Every woman is an asset for India. We need to create opportunities for them” and informed “We will put reasonable suggestions, policy suggestions in the manifesto. And the next government will work towards implementing the manifesto”.
"We talk a lot about becoming a superpower in the world but till the women of our country do not feel comfortable and secured, our country cannot become a superpower. And to tell you the truth, we don't want such a superpower status, where women are not empowered," said the young Congress leader and said further, “"I know one thing, that if you have empowered the women, then you won't be able to stop them. Women can do anything they want. And every single woman is an asset of the country."
“There is a big battle ahead; we must for women empowerment; one important battle we have to win is the women reservation bill in Parliament.. We're not going to let go of it” said Rahul Gandhi.
“We will try to include all the important suggestions made by you. We need to empower the women, in her house and in the country. Every single Indian woman must feel that the road ahead her is open and she can go forward”, said Rahul Gandhi while concluding the interaction.
Around 250 women from various sections of the society across the country attended the meeting to interact with Rahul Gandhi.

Congress President Sonia Gandhi at AICC session (New Delhi), 17th Jan 2014

Congress President Sonia Gandhi at AICC session (New Delhi), 17th Jan 2014
Honorable Dr. Manmohan Singh ji, Vice President Rahul Gandhi ji, presented leaders, colleagues,
In all those speeches in this session we heard, there was kind of enthusiasm and self-confidence. It has proved from that our morale has been on high side and we are ready to face the coming challenge.
Many suggestions have come up and I think they should find place in our resolution. As Rahul ji has just said, those bills which are pending must get passed in the parliament soon. There are six bills which are the part of our policies to combat corruption. There are some bills too which were being mentioned by our colleagues, which make dalit, poor, tribal and differently disable more empowered. I am sure Prime Minister and his colleagues will pay their attention on these suggestions and we will try that these bills are presented in the coming session of the parliament.
All speakers had mentioned the achievements of Congress led UPA government in their speeches. Certainly it will be the part of election campaign. We publicize them as much as we can. There shouldn’t be any hesitation regarding this. The significant energy and excitement I am seeing in this hall is the proof that we can do anything we decide to do.
If we work with unity and discipline then no power can stop us. Therefore come and channelize your works so that in the coming days we can face the challenges. We should be united so that our battle ends with a triumph. And the future will be ours.
Jai Hind!

Rahul Gandhi at AICC meet says PM will be elected by the MPs - part 03

Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi delivered an electrifying speech at the AICC Session being held at Talkatora Stadium, New Delhi and also took a dig at the opposition by saying that they are expert in marketing. Je also categorically said that the Prime Minister will be elected by the Member of Parliament, according to the constitution. In an indirect attack on BJP, Rahul Gandhi said, "You have a opposition today and there is Congress. Both are different... They say whatever comes to their mind. They are good in marketing. They have songs, music and lot of other shining things for marketing. They are experts in such a way they sell combs to bald people". Further in an apparent dig at AAP, the Congress Vice President continued, "Now, we have some new entrants. If the one section in opposition sells combs to bald, the new party has started hair-cut on bald heads" and warned "Please do not fall in their traps and words".

Rahul Gandhi at AICC meet: takes on BJP, ends speculations on PM candidate

Rahul Gandhi at AICC meet: We are not assembled here as individuals, but as the trustees of an idea
Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi delivered an electrifying speech at the AICC Session being held at Talkatora Stadium, New Delhi and also took a dig at the opposition by saying that they are expert in marketing.
“We are not assembled here as individuals today. We are assembled here as the trustees of an idea, and we going to defend this idea. This idea is far greater than any one of us. It is greater than me, you, the Prime Minister or the Congress President. We respect the respect and dignity of every single one of our countrymen, regardless who he is”, said the young Congress leader amidst loud applauds from the gathering.
In an indirect attack on BJP, Rahul Gandhi said, “You have a opposition today and there is Congress. Both are different... They say whatever comes to their mind. They are good in marketing. They have songs, music and lot of other shining things for marketing. They are experts in such a way they sell combs to bald people”. Further in an apparent dig at AAP, the Congress Vice President continued, “Now, we have some new entrants. If the one section in opposition sells combs to bald, the new party has started hair-cut on bald heads” and warned “Please do not fall in their traps and words”.
Slamming Narendra Modi and BJP’s ‘Congress mukth Bharat’ campaign, Rahul Gandhi said, “Opposition campaigns for a Congress-free India. They neither know our history nor read history books. I want to tell them that Congress is not just a party, but a vision, an ideology which is deep rooted in the hearts and minds of common people- the ideology based on brotherhood, love and dignity. I want to tell the opposition that this is not a new vision but is 3000 years old.. Please keep it in your mind that this vision is not yet vanished from our culture in the past 3000 years and no one can ever do so. And whoever who tried to finish this ideology, got finished themselves”. “Democracy is not rule by the dictate. We have struggled for this from last hundred years. Democracy is not rule by one man. Democracy is ruled through the empowered elected representatives to you,” he added.
“We do not respond by turning people against one and another. We do not respond by the lighting the fires of communal hatred. No, we do not respond by proposing either that is structure of democracy be handed to one man or that viciously destroyed” said Rahul Gandhi in another indirect attack on BJP and said further, “The Congress party responds through peaceful and constitutional democratic means. We respond from the sole of the values that built this great nation”.



Ending all speculations about his prime minister candidature, Rahul Gandhi categorically said “Now, I want to talk about the Prime ministership... In our constitution, it is clearly written that the elected member of parliaments elect the Prime Minister. Congress is a party which respects constitution and its democratic principles. We will fight elections and we will win it. But our member of parliaments only will elect our Prime Minister. “I want to tell you one thing more. I am a sincere Sepoy of the Congress and I am ready to do whatever my party asks me to do. You just order and I will just obey it”, he assured.
Full text of the speech of Rahul Gandhi at AICC meet in New Delhi

Rahul Gandhi at AICC meet says PM will be elected by the MPs - part 02

Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi delivered an electrifying speech at the AICC Session being held at Talkatora Stadium, New Delhi and also took a dig at the opposition by saying that they are expert in marketing. Je also categorically said that the Prime Minister will be elected by the Member of Parliament, according to the constitution. In an indirect attack on BJP, Rahul Gandhi said, "You have a opposition today and there is Congress. Both are different... They say whatever comes to their mind. They are good in marketing. They have songs, music and lot of other shining things for marketing. They are experts in such a way they sell combs to bald people". Further in an apparent dig at AAP, the Congress Vice President continued, "Now, we have some new entrants. If the one section in opposition sells combs to bald, the new party has started hair-cut on bald heads" and warned "Please do not fall in their traps and words".

Rahul Gandhi at AICC meet says PM will be elected by the MPs part 01

Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi delivered an electrifying speech at the AICC Session being held at Talkatora Stadium, New Delhi and also took a dig at the opposition by saying that they are expert in marketing. Je also categorically said that the Prime Minister will be elected by the Member of Parliaments, according to the constitution. In an indirect attack on BJP, Rahul Gandhi said, "You have a opposition today and there is Congress. Both are different... They say whatever comes to their mind. They are good in marketing. They have songs, music and lot of other shining things for marketing. They are experts in such a way they sell combs to bald people". Further in an apparent dig at AAP, the Congress Vice President continued, "Now, we have some new entrants. If the one section in opposition sells combs to bald, the new party has started hair-cut on bald heads" and warned "Please do not fall in their traps and words".

Sonia Gandhi at AICC session, New Delhi says Congress is ready for LS polls; attacks BJP Part 02

Congress President and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi while addressing the the AICC session at New Delhi's Talkatora Stadium, gave a clear signal that the party is ready and prepared for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. "This election will see a sharpened contest between conflicting ideologies between conflicting interpretations of the past and between clashing visions of the future. It will be a battle for India as it was conceived by our founding fathers and as we cherish. It will be a battle for the preservation of our age old secular traditions of diverse communities living harmoniously in one composite national identity".

Sonia Gandhi at AICC session, New Delhi says Congress is ready for LS polls; attacks BJP Part 01

Congress President and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi while addressing the the AICC session at New Delhi's Talkatora Stadium, gave a clear signal that the party is ready and prepared for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. "This election will see a sharpened contest between conflicting ideologies between conflicting interpretations of the past and between clashing visions of the future. It will be a battle for India as it was conceived by our founding fathers and as we cherish. It will be a battle for the preservation of our age old secular traditions of diverse communities living harmoniously in one composite national identity".

Sonia Gandhi at AICC session: BJP’s way is to divide communities, to spread disharmony

Congress President and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, in her opening address at the AICC session being held at New Delhi’s Talkatora Stadium, gave a clear signal that the party is ready and prepared for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

“We assembled here as the 2014 Parliament elections approach. We meet here to send a clear signal that the Congress is ready and prepared for the battle ahead” and sent a warning by saying “This election will see a sharpened contest between conflicting ideologies between conflicting interpretations of the past and between clashing visions of the future. It will be a battle for India as it was conceived by our founding fathers and as we cherish. It will be a battle for the preservation of our age old secular traditions of diverse communities living harmoniously in one composite national identity”.

She also took the opportunity to hit out at the BJP, without taking its name and said that it is spreading hatred among the people. “The biggest enemy is the communal forces and fundamentalist ideologies. Congress always worked to unite the country and its people. We also respected our diversity and committed for integrity. But what is the main agenda of our main opposition party?” and continued, “Opposition's way is to divide communities, to spread disharmony. It is to divide the society on communal lines and spread hatred in the name of unity to impose a single identity. They hide their real face behind the mask of moderate pretensions. They criticise our leaders and level false allegations against them and they go to the extent of spreading violence. How can such an ideology be tolerated?”

“As a Congress worker, we must be proud that we never compromised with such divisive ideologies and have always fought against communal forces” said Sonia Gandhi and emphasized, “Our culture ensures equality and dignity to all. For Congress, secularism is not a political compulsion but a matter of deep faith”.
The Congress President also touched on the issue of corruption and appealed to parties to rise above political considerations to ensure passage of anti-corruption measures pending in Parliament. “All Congress ruled states are committed to a new powerful and independent Lokayukta by the end of February, 2014. Crucial bills in our fight against corruption are pending in Parliament and we will do our utmost to get those bills passed when Parliament reconvenes next month and I appeal all parties to rise above political considerations and pass these bills” said Sonia Gandhi.



“In our long journey, we have seen many ups and downs. We have witnessed victories and faced defeats which are inescapable in politics. But we have kept ourselves vibrant. We must surge ahead amidst all challenges. There is one more factor and that is our strength to fight, which has kept us going, and will keep us going in the coming days. It is not my hope but my belief that we will continue our fight in the coming days and will emerge victorious overcoming all the challenges ahead of us” added the Congress President towards conclusion.

Boosting the morale of the Congress leaders, while ending her speech, Sonia Gandhi said, “We will be united in speech, our vision, our goal, and will emerge victorious in this struggle”.

Fulltext of the opening remarks by Congress President Sonia Gandhi at AICC meet inNew Delhi

Sonia Gandhi inaugurates SAMARTH 2014, stresses the need to protect the rights of the disabled

Congress President and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi inaugurated 'SAMARTH 2014 -- Celebrating Diversity', a national festival for showcasing the abilities of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) being organized by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India at Siri Fort Auditorium, New Delhi on Wednesday. "This SAMARTH festival reflects the diversified culture of our country and also our sense of inclusiveness. Our system does provide every one with equal rights. At the same time, we will have to put in more efforts to ensure the rights of the persons with disability", said the Congress President in her inaugural address. "Development will be complete only if we include the persons with disabilities also in the growth process. It is necessary to make our lives more meaningful," she said.

Sonia Gandhi at SAMARTH-2014: Take correct steps at correct time to address the issues of disability

Sonia Gandhi at SAMARTH-2014: We must include the disabled persons also in the growth process
Congress President and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi inaugurated ‘SAMARTH 2014 - Celebrating Diversity’, a national festival for showcasing the abilities of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) being organized by the Department of Disability Affairs under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India at Siri Fort Auditorium, New Delhi on Wednesday.

“This SAMARTH festival reflects the diversified culture of our country and also our sense of inclusiveness. Our system does provide every one with equal rights. At the same time, we will have to put in more efforts to ensure the rights of the persons with disability”, said the Congress President in her inaugural address. “Development will be complete only if we include the persons with disabilities also in the growth process. It is necessary to make our lives more meaningful,” she continued.
“The handicapped persons must be connected with the social and administrative system and must ensure that they have a role in the development process. In our diverse culture, every person has their own capacity and ability. We must realise that everybody in our country, including the disabled has their own needs and demands. They also must get opportunities to express their talent and potential” added Sonia Gandhi.

“If we take correct steps at correct time, we can address the issues of disability to a great extent and we can also change the mindset of the people towards the disabled persons. We must take adequate steps so that the disabled persons live in confidence even from the childhood and become self reliant” further said the UPA Chairperson.
While concluding her address Sonia Gandhi urged, “I want to urge that one should not keep away the disabled persons from the main stream but must try to ensure their equal participation in social life. Let us take a pledge to continue with our efforts to create a positive environment for the upliftment of the disabled persons so that they also get equal opportunities like others and their rights are protected”.

As per Census 2011, there are 2.68 crore persons with disabilities and constitute 2.22 percent of the total population of the country. The persons with disabilities form a very diverse group and include persons with impairments such as visual (18.8%), hearing (18.9%), speech (7.5%), loco- motor (20.3%), mental retardation (5.6%) mental illness (2.7%) and multiple disability (7.9%).

The Department of Disability Affairs has adopted a multi-pronged collaborative approach involving all the appropriate partners: Governments/UTs, Central/State undertakings, local authorities, NGOs etc. India has also signed and ratified the United Nations Convention for protection and promotion of the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities. Among the many commitments towards the said Convention, a major one is building capacity among people with disabilities and raising awareness about disability issues. SAMARTH is an important step in this direction. The objectives of organizing Samarth are to showcase the abilities and potential of PwDs; create awareness about their rights and entitlements; and provide PwDs and those working for them an opportunity for an interface with each other.

Full text of Mrs. Sonia Gandhi’s inaugural address of ‘SAMARTH 2014’ festival at Siri Fort Auditorium, New Delhi

Rahul Gandhi: BJP must realize that Congress is the only party that has kept India united

Rahul Gandhi: The nation can't run on the whims and fancies of a particular person
Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi stated that he is ready to take any responsibility, if given, and will do whatever the party wants him to do. “Congress should come to power in the interest of the country. I will take up whatever responsibility is given to me by my party in the future and do it diligently to the best of my abilities,” said Rahul Gandhi in an interview to Dainik Bhaskar, Hindi news daily.
The Congress vice-president also expressed hope that Congress party will do well in the next General Elections and his party's return to power will hold good for the nation. “People, sometimes, underestimate Congress. That had happened in 2004 and 2009, but we came out victorious. Coming general elections will be very exciting and I am confident that we will perform well in the polls”, said Rahul Gandhi and stated further, “We have done tremendous works in the last ten years. We changed the development paradigm of our country. We brought in land mark policies like the NREGA, Right to Education and land acquisition bills. Congress has been granting rights to the people. We gave right to information and right to forests. We granted rights to identity through Aadhar. We also provided the people with right to food. We have created history by ensuring rights to the people”.
When asked about BJP’s Congress-free India campaign and Narendra Modi’s popularity, the young Congress leader quipped, “BJP now wants personality oriented leadership which isn't in the favour of the nation. The nation can't run on the whims and fancies of a particular person. The future of the 120 million people will be secured only if we take all the citizens along. Congress is in the DNA of this country. BJP needs to realise that Congress is the only party that has kept the people of India united”.
Rahul Gandhi denied reports that Congress is fast losing its allies. “It is untrue that my party is losing its allies, we have alliances in Maharashtra and J&K. Further discussions are in progress,” he said.
About speculations regarding a bigger responsibility for Priyanka Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi said “Priyanka is my sister and my friend. She is also an active Congress soldier. Her ideas strengthen me as well as my party. I do not think that she will have any election-based role”.
Rahul Gandhi also took a jibe at the Aam Aadmi Party and, “I do not agree with them on many matters. Our decisions must be with a long term vision aimed at safety and security of the people, and must not be short-termed”.
“My focus is on a long term vision for the future of our country, where all Indians have equal freedom, dignity and opportunity. My vision is for an India where girls are not discriminated against. We need to transform the civil service and legal system. Government must be honest and should be zero tolerant on corruption” he said in the interview.
(Courtesy – Dainik Bhaskar)


English version of the excerpts of the interview with Rahul Gandhi published in Dainik Bhaskar on 14 Jan, 2014

Rahul Gandhi in Kerala wants more women and youngsters to join Congress

Rahul Gandhi in Kerala urges women and youngsters to join Congress
Kochi: Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi, who was on a day-long visit to Kerala to take part in the youth Congress yatra, invited the young and women to join the party.
Rahul Gandhi, who was returning after participating in Youth Congress’ 'Yuva Kerala Yatra' at Noornad in Alapuzha district, was talking to media persons at Kochi International Airport in Nedumbassery "I invite all women and youngsters to work in the Congress," said the Congress leader and stressed the need to encourage entrepreneurship in the state, which would help create more jobs. “I think it is also very important in a state like Kerala and the rest of the country, that women come into politics, and they play a big role in the political system. I would like to invite all the youngsters and women in Kerala to come forward, work with the Congress party, and to change the way politics works,” he added.
Rahul Gandhi added that he wanted the state government and the Congress party to look into the issue of job creation in Kerala. "Already they have done quite a lot," he said. “There is a need to develop and encourage as many young entrepreneurs as possible in the state.. Kerala has great potential.”We will push it as hard as we can," said the Congress leader.
“We are trying to promote youngsters into politics as possible, and it was an excellent padh yatra. One of the things I have asked (state Home Minister) Ramesh Chennithala to look into and the government to look into is the issue of jobs, and to try and develop as many young entrepreneurs as possible,” said Rahul Gandhi.
Rahul Gandhi arrived at Kochi airport in the afternoon on Monday and went to Alappuzha to join the Yatra. The Congress Vice-President also dropped in at a Primary health the centre located between Kochi and Alappuzha and spent about half-an-hour there. At the Community health Centre in Thuravoor, Rahul Gandhi mingled with the locals and officials. When he reached there, polio distribution was in progress and he immediately joined the campaign by administering polio drops to a baby. The Congress leader also had discussions with the ASHA volunteers there. Rahul Gandhi also praised the ‘world class’ health care system in the Kerala and also lauded the services of the nurses from the state who have been working across the world.
The Yatra campaign was led by State Youth Congress President Dean Kuriakose, highlighting the themes of secularism and non-violent society.