Rahul Gandhi at Colombia University Rues ‘Attack on Democracy’
LoP Rahul Gandhi speaks at Columbia University (Image video grab of livestream)
In a lecture at Universidad EIA in Bogotá, the Leader of Opposition accused the Modi government of eroding democratic foundations, warning that suppressing India’s diversity would fracture its social fabric.
By AMIT KUMAR
New Delhi, October 2, 2025 — Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi delivered a sharp critique of the Narendra Modi government during a lecture at Universidad EIA in Bogotá, Colombia, warning that India’s democratic institutions are under a “systematic attack” that endangers the nation’s inclusive foundations.
Speaking on “The Future is Today” as part of his South America tour, Gandhi addressed students, academics, and political leaders, blending global economic insights with concerns over India’s internal challenges.
Drawing parallels with past global powers, Gandhi highlighted energy transitions as pivotal to the rise of empires. “If you look at big empires—UK or US—they rise when there is an energy transition… So far, the Chinese are winning the battle,” he remarked, urging India to harness its youth and innovation to lead the renewable shift.
Shifting focus to domestic politics, Gandhi accused the Modi government of eroding democratic norms. “The biggest threat facing India today is a systematic attack on its democratic foundations,” he said, warning that attempts to impose a singular narrative while suppressing languages, traditions, and diverse voices would weaken the country’s unity.
He stressed the importance of protecting India’s multicultural ethos, calling inclusivity essential for progress: “Any attempt to suppress different ideas will be counterproductive.”
Despite concerns, Gandhi expressed optimism about India’s potential, citing its demographic dividend and technological edge, but cautioned against deepening polarization. His themes echoed those of his Bharat Jodo Yatra, framing democracy as a dynamic process that demands vigilance.
The hour-long lecture, streamed live by the Indian Overseas Congress, ended with a Q&A on climate action and geopolitics. This marks Gandhi’s second major overseas address in 2025, following his earlier Cambridge University lecture.
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