Congress leader and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, while addressing an audience in Berlin, made a sharp political attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), alleging that the ruling party is “proposing the elimination of the Indian Constitution.” His remarks, delivered during an interaction with members of the Indian diaspora and academic circles, have once again ignited a major political controversy back home, with the BJP expected to mount a strong counter.

Rahul Gandhi asserted that the opposition’s struggle is not merely against the BJP as a political party but against what he described as the “capture of India’s institutional structure.” According to him, safeguarding the Constitution and democratic institutions has become the central mission of the opposition.

Rahul Gandhi’s remarks in Berlin

Speaking in Germany’s capital, Rahul Gandhi said:

“We will deal with it, and we will create a method, a system of opposition resistance that will succeed. But we’re not fighting the BJP. You have to understand that we’re fighting their capture of the Indian institutional structure.”

He alleged that institutions meant to function independently—such as constitutional bodies, investigative agencies, and democratic forums—are being systematically influenced.

Rahul Gandhi further claimed that the Indian Constitution, which guarantees equality, freedom, and justice, is under threat, and that the BJP’s ideological approach is fundamentally at odds with its core principles.

Allegation of constitutional threat

The Congress leader’s assertion that the BJP is proposing the elimination of the Constitution represents one of the strongest accusations levelled against the ruling party in recent months. While Rahul Gandhi did not point to a single legislative move, he cited:

• Alleged weakening of institutional autonomy

• Curtailment of dissent

• Centralisation of power

According to him, these developments collectively amount to an attempt to undermine constitutional values.

Opposition’s strategy: “Resistance, not reaction”

Rahul Gandhi emphasised that the opposition is working to build a systematic and long-term resistance, rather than reacting sporadically to individual policies.

Key elements of this approach, as outlined in his speech, include:

• Strengthening unity among opposition parties

• Mobilising civil society

• Defending constitutional bodies

• Engaging citizens, especially youth

He said the opposition’s goal is not just electoral victory but institutional restoration.

Context of foreign speeches

Rahul Gandhi’s remarks in Berlin follow a series of speeches made abroad over the years where he has spoken about:

• Democracy in India

• Media freedom

• Institutional independence

Each such address has drawn criticism from the BJP, which accuses him of internationalising domestic politics and tarnishing India’s global image.

BJP’s likely response

Though an official BJP reaction was awaited at the time of the speech, party leaders have historically rejected such allegations, asserting that:

• The Constitution is safe under BJP rule

• Democratic mandates validate governance decisions

• Opposition claims are politically motivated

BJP leaders have also argued that constitutional amendments and policy reforms are conducted strictly within democratic and legal frameworks.

Congress’s defence

The Congress party has consistently defended Rahul Gandhi’s statements abroad, arguing that:

• Raising alarms on constitutional values is patriotic

• Democracies thrive on debate and dissent

• International dialogue does not equate to disloyalty

Congress leaders maintain that silencing such voices poses a greater threat to democracy than speaking critically.

Debate on ‘institutional capture’

The phrase “institutional capture” has become central to opposition discourse. Political analysts explain it as a situation where institutions formally exist but are perceived to function under political influence.

Supporters of the government reject this claim, stating that:

• Institutions operate independently

• Judicial and constitutional checks remain strong

• Allegations lack concrete proof

The debate remains sharply polarised.

Public and political reaction

Rahul Gandhi’s Berlin remarks triggered intense debate:

• BJP supporters accused him of disrespecting India abroad

• Opposition supporters hailed him for speaking “truth to power”

• Neutral observers called for evidence-based discussions

Social media platforms reflected deep ideological divisions, with hashtags both supporting and opposing his statements trending.

International perception

Diplomatic experts note that:

• Foreign audiences typically view such remarks as part of internal political debate

• India’s institutional credibility largely depends on domestic actions

• The real political impact is felt more at home than abroad

They add that opposition leaders worldwide often voice concerns internationally without diplomatic fallout.

Electoral and political implications

With elections approaching in several states, the remarks carry political weight:

• BJP is likely to frame itself as defender of nationalism

• Congress aims to position itself as guardian of the Constitution

• Constitutional discourse may become a key campaign theme

Analysts say such narratives resonate strongly with politically engaged voters.

Conclusion

Rahul Gandhi’s claim in Berlin that the BJP is proposing the elimination of the Indian Constitution has intensified India’s already charged political climate. By framing the opposition’s struggle as one against institutional capture, the Congress leader has sought to elevate the debate beyond routine politics to a fundamental question about democracy and constitutional values.

Whether these assertions strengthen democratic vigilance or deepen political polarisation will depend on how the debate unfolds in Parliament, public discourse, and ultimately at the ballot box.

Join our Telegram Channel for Latest News and Regular Updates.

Start your Mutual Fund Journey  by Opening Free Account in Asset Plus.

Start your Stock Market Journey and Apply in IPO by Opening Free Demat Account in Choice Broking FinX.