Patna (Bihar) [India], April 7: Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, took a sharp dig at US President Donald Trump during his address at the Samvidhan Suraksha Sammelan in Patna, blaming the American leader for triggering a global stock market tumble through his tariff policy.
“The US president has led to a tumble in the stock market. Less than 1 per cent of the people here have their money invested in the stock market, which means the stock market is not a field for you. Unlimited money is made in it, but you don’t get the benefit of it,” Gandhi said.
His remarks came in the wake of a major sell-off in Asian markets, reportedly sparked by Trump’s announcement of a new round of tariffs, raising fresh concerns over global trade and economic slowdown.
Gandhi also addressed issues of social justice and constitutional values, stressing that weaker sections of society are being treated like second-class citizens.
“People say that the Constitution was drafted in 1947. However, I believe this Constitution is thousands of years old—it includes the thoughts of Ambedkar ji, Phule ji, Gandhi ji, Nehru ji, Guru Nanak ji, and Kabir. These are the ideals India holds sacred,” he added.
Reflecting on his legacy, Rahul Gandhi spoke emotionally about former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and Mahatma Gandhi:
“I was asked about my great-grandfather Nehru ji and what I learned from him. As I looked at a picture of both Nehru ji and Gandhi ji, one thought came to mind: both loved the truth.”
In a significant political statement ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections later this year, Gandhi pledged that the Congress party would demolish the “fake barrier” of the 50% cap on reservations.
“This 50% cap is not set in stone. We will bring in measures to ensure social justice for all who need it,” he asserted, drawing loud cheers from the audience.
The Bihar Assembly elections are expected to be held in October-November 2025, and the Congress party is gearing up to make reservation policy and constitutional protection of minorities and backward classes key issues in its campaign.