Daijiworld Media Network - Hyderabad
Hyderabad, Apr 26: Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, said on Saturday that love and affection are the most powerful forces against hatred. Speaking at the 'Bharat Summit' organized by the Telangana government, Gandhi emphasized that even amid policy disagreements, political discourse must be rooted in empathy, affection, and genuine listening to the voices of the people.
The two-day summit, held under the theme "Delivering Global Justice," brought together international leaders and policymakers to discuss issues ranging from gender equality to inclusive governance. Sharing insights from his Bharat Jodo Yatra, Gandhi recounted how directly connecting with people on an emotional level transformed both his political journey and his personal outlook. He admitted that although he had long been in politics, it was only during the yatra that he explicitly expressed love to the people he served.
Reflecting on a touching moment when a little girl told him, "Uncle, I love you," Gandhi said it became clear to him that love could reshape political engagement. He described how, after embracing this perspective, conversations became deeper and more genuine, moving beyond mere policy promises to heartfelt connections with citizens.
Gandhi criticized the BJP-RSS framework, saying it was rooted in fear, anger, and hatred. In contrast, he urged that the Congress party and others who believe in democratic values must adopt a framework centered on love, understanding, and respect for the people's will.
He observed that political strategies that worked a decade ago are now outdated, particularly given the rise of concentrated capital, modern media, and social media. Gandhi stressed the need for a "new kind of politician" who can navigate these changes by building authentic connections with people rather than relying solely on traditional tactics.
Recalling the early days of the Congress Party’s struggles against a new, aggressive political environment, Gandhi explained how the conventional routes of communication and dissent seemed blocked, prompting his decision to undertake a foot march from Kanyakumari to Kashmir. He noted that the experience taught him the critical art of listening — not just hearing words, but truly absorbing people's experiences without internal judgment or response.
Gandhi contrasted this with his opponents, who he said believe they already have all the answers, thereby cutting themselves off from genuine dialogue. He stressed that it is the people who hold the solutions, and politicians must learn to listen if they truly want to serve.
Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy and Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka also addressed the gathering during the plenary session.