Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has strongly asserted that “no one can touch Tamil Nadu,” launching a sharp attack on the central government following the defeat of the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, 2026 in Parliament. The bill, linked to women’s reservation and delimitation concerns, failed to secure the required two-thirds majority in the Lok Sabha, with 298 votes in favour and 230 against.

The legislation, which the Centre described as part of a broader constitutional reform package, faced resistance in Parliament and ultimately could not be passed. Following its defeat, two other related bills were also not taken up for voting, as the government stated they were “intrinsically linked” to the main proposal.

Speaking at a public rally in Ponneri during a campaign event for the DMK-led alliance, Mr. Gandhi framed the issue as a larger battle over federalism and state autonomy. He said the INDIA bloc would firmly resist any attempt to weaken Tamil Nadu’s representation in the Union, adding that the state’s identity and voice must remain protected.

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Mr. Gandhi also criticized the ruling establishment’s approach to national integration, alleging that attempts were being made to impose a uniform cultural and political framework. He argued that India is a “Union of States” and stressed that each state must retain its linguistic and cultural identity without central interference.

In his remarks, he accused the central leadership of undermining Tamil culture and history. He said that any attack on the Tamil language was an attack on India’s diversity itself, adding that Tamil Nadu represents a civilisation with thousands of years of heritage that must be safeguarded.

The Congress leader further alleged that the delimitation-related provisions in the bill were aimed at reducing Tamil Nadu’s representation in Parliament. He claimed this would weaken southern and smaller states politically, while centralising power. He also criticized opposition parties in the state, including the AIADMK, alleging they had lost independence and were influenced by national leadership.

Alongside his political criticism, Mr. Gandhi announced a set of welfare promises termed “six guarantees” for Tamil Nadu, including monthly financial assistance for women, senior citizens, differently-abled persons, students, and families, along with job creation commitments and support for women property owners. He said these measures were intended to strengthen social justice and decentralised governance.

Concluding his address, Mr. Gandhi reiterated that Tamil identity could not be undermined by any political force, stating that Tamil language and culture were deeply rooted and enduring. He said the INDIA alliance, along with regional partners, would continue to resist any move perceived as weakening the state’s autonomy or representation at the national level.

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