New Delhi [India], June 9: Congress leader and newly-appointed Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has strongly criticised the Modi government following a tragic train accident in Maharashtra, claiming the incident reflects the ground reality of India—“insecurity, congestion, and chaos”—amid the ruling party’s celebration of 11 years in office.
Taking to social media platform X, Gandhi expressed deep condolences for the victims of the incident near Mumbra railway station in Thane district, where several passengers fell from an overcrowded local train traveling toward Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT).
“While the Modi Government is celebrating 11 years of ‘service’, the reality of the country is reflected in the tragic news coming from Mumbai… Indian Railways has today become a symbol of insecurity and mismanagement,” Gandhi wrote.
The Congress leader further accused the Modi government of “propaganda over performance”, saying:
“Eleven years of Modi government = no accountability, no change, only propaganda. Instead of addressing today’s challenges, they are busy selling dreams for 2047.”
The Incident:
According to Central Railway officials, eight people fell from a packed Down/Fast local train at Mumbra station due to severe overcrowding.
Emergency services responded promptly, and injured passengers were shifted to nearby hospitals. The accident caused disruption to Mumbai’s local train services, a vital daily lifeline for millions.
“Initial findings point to excessive crowding as the cause. The matter is under investigation,” said Central Railway in a statement.
Modi Government’s Anniversary Campaign:
The tragic incident comes on the day when Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked 11 years in office, having taken oath on May 26, 2014, and started his third consecutive term on June 9, 2024.
Earlier, PM Modi had urged citizens to participate in a survey on the NaMo App, asking for feedback on India’s development over the past 11 years.
“Your views matter the most! Take part in this survey on the NaMo App and let us know how you view India’s growth journey over the last 11 years,” PM Modi posted on X with the hashtag #11YearsOfSeva.
Political Context:
Rahul Gandhi’s remarks add to growing opposition criticism about the state of public infrastructure and lack of institutional accountability, even as the BJP promotes its achievements ahead of upcoming state elections and key national milestones.