Rahul Gandhi Slams ‘Arrogant’ Leadership of Kerala CM Vijayan

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday criticised Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, saying he was not a “divine figure” uniquely capable of governing the state and that Kerala boasts numerous leaders characterized by humility and empathy. Speaking at a campaign rally in Thrissur, Gandhi argued that projecting oneself as the sole capable leader not only insults the people of Kerala but also reflects arrogance in leadership.

Gandhi suggested that such messaging undermines both the public and other leaders within the Left Democratic Front (LDF), the ruling coalition in Kerala. He claimed that the ongoing electoral contest in the state was not a typical bipolar fight, but one marked by an implicit understanding between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the LDF, effectively positioning the United Democratic Front (UDF) as the only true opposition.

Turning his focus to the BJP, Gandhi questioned why Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who often references religion in his speeches, remained silent on the alleged Sabarimala gold smuggling case during visits to Kerala. He argued that this selective silence reinforces the perception that the BJP may be attempting to shield or assist the Left leadership.

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Gandhi also highlighted the apparent disparity in accountability, noting that while he has faced scrutiny from central agencies for criticising Modi, no similar attention appears directed at Vijayan or his family. The Congress leader suggested that such observations strengthen the narrative of a political understanding between the BJP and the LDF.

Focusing again on Vijayan’s campaign strategies, Gandhi criticised the widespread display of posters across Kerala featuring the Chief Minister, arguing that it conveys the message that governance depends solely on one individual. He described this as emblematic of political arrogance, drawing parallels to centralised leadership styles he attributes to PM Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

Concluding his address, Gandhi emphasised that democratic leadership should be grounded in humility, inclusiveness, and institutional balance. He warned that any attempt to project personal supremacy risks undermining public dignity and the functioning of democratic institutions in the state.

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