Union Textile Minister Giriraj Singh on Thursday criticised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi during a two-day visit to Surat, accusing the opposition of creating political instability and an atmosphere of anarchy in the country. Addressing reporters at the Surat Circuit House, Singh challenged Gandhi to resign from the Lok Sabha if he believed the current political situation was illegitimate. His remarks came amid opposition protests and demands for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, intensifying the political confrontation between the BJP-led government and opposition parties.

Singh questioned the opposition's demand for Kumar's resignation and accused Congress leaders of applying different standards when criticising constitutional authorities. He also referred to the governments in Karnataka and Telangana while challenging Gandhi to take responsibility for the political positions adopted by his party. Criticising the opposition's proposed 'Delhi Chalo' protest, the minister alleged that its leaders were attempting to create unrest similar to situations witnessed in Bangladesh and Nepal. He used strong language against opposition leaders and accused them of opposing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government.

The minister also rejected claims of a migrant exodus from Surat, arguing that the movement of workers to their home states should not automatically be interpreted as evidence of an economic crisis. Singh maintained that workers might return to their villages if they believed better employment opportunities were available there. He cited employment prospects in states such as Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, arguing that changes in workers' locations should be assessed in the context of economic development and job availability. He described the term 'exodus' as politically charged and accused some groups of promoting what he considered a misleading narrative.

Also Read: CJP Sets October 10 Delhi Protest Over Demand For Gyanesh Kumar's Resignation

Singh's comments came amid concerns about working conditions in Surat's textile industry, where allegations have emerged that some workers are denied statutory weekly holidays, face dismissal for requesting leave and are required to work shifts lasting 12 hours. Asked about these complaints, the minister argued that mill owners and workers should maintain a cooperative relationship rather than view each other as adversaries. He described both groups as essential to the industry and said employers should treat workers like family. Singh added that he would examine the specific complaints after further discussions, leaving the allegations subject to further scrutiny.

Addressing concerns about the economic slowdown, textile-sector performance and alleged arbitrary price increases by companies, Singh defended the Centre's economic policies under Prime Minister Modi. He acknowledged that the conflict in the Gulf region had affected economies worldwide but argued that product prices had not increased in proportion to the overall impact. The minister said he would examine allegations of unjustified price rises before providing a detailed response. His remarks came as businesses and workers continue to face questions about costs, employment and economic conditions.

Singh also highlighted India's economic progress under the Modi government, referring to the country's improved global economic standing and growth in exports. However, he did not provide specific rankings or export figures to support the claims made during the interaction. His visit combined political criticism of the opposition with responses to concerns surrounding migration, industrial labour conditions and economic performance. The issues raised in Surat are likely to remain relevant to discussions about the textile sector, particularly as workers' welfare and employment opportunities continue to draw attention.

Also Read: DMK Changes Position On Rahul Gandhi’s Delhi Protest Over Gyanesh Kumar