Ahmedabad, April 16 (IANS) The Congress is unable to find candidates to contest elections, Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi said on Thursday, criticising the Opposition during a public meeting in Dahod district.
Addressing a ‘Vikas Sankalp Sabha’ at Chhapri, Sanghavi said: “Today, the condition of the Congress is such that it is not even able to find candidates to contest elections.”
Targeting Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi, he added: “Those who speak about the rights of tribals have to say ‘Jai Adivasi’ when they come to Gujarat.”
District leaders and a large number of people gathered to attend the meeting and welcome the Deputy Chief Minister.
In his address, Sanghavi highlighted the role of tribal communities in the country’s history and development. “The contribution of the tribal community to the development of the country and Gujarat is unparalleled,” he said.
Referring to the Indian Rebellion of 1857, he said: “During the 1857 freedom struggle, tribals displayed bravery by using bows and arrows against the British. The entire nation still pays tribute to the martyrdom of Vegda Bhil for the protection of the Somnath Temple.”
Sanghavi said the aspirations of freedom fighters had been realised under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
“The dream was that tribals would come out of huts and temporary shelters, and that electricity and gas cylinders would reach their homes. This has been fulfilled by the BJP government,” he said.
Contrasting the current administration with previous governments, he said: “During the earlier Congress government, there was only ‘cut money’, whereas today the BJP government transfers Rs 6,000 directly into the accounts of farmers as their rightful benefit.”
Highlighting development in Dahod, Sanghavi said: “Today, tribals have a strong presence in Gujarat. There are more than 11 lakh Ayushman card holders in Dahod district.”
Referring to changes in infrastructure and safety, he said: “There was a time when people had to reach home before darkness fell in Dahod, but today there is 24-hour electricity and an atmosphere of security.”
Earlier, Sanghavi held a meeting with social leaders in Jalat village to discuss upcoming programmes.
–IANS
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