Bhubaneswar: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi launched a blistering attack on the BJP-led government in Odisha on Friday, alleging that the state is effectively being run by industrialist Gautam Adani.

Addressing a massive public rally at Baramunda Ground in Bhubaneswar under the theme ‘Save the Constitution of India’, Gandhi said, “The Constitution protects the poor, the oppressed, farmers, and backward communities. It is not written anywhere that it belongs to Ambani, Adani, or any billionaire. Yet, wherever you look in Odisha, there are only Adani's posters. It appears Adani is running the government here.”

Referring to the recent Ratha Jatra of Lord Jagannath in Puri, he claimed, “Adani’s influence was evident when the chariots were halted due to him."

Raising serious concerns over women’s safety and unemployment in the state, Gandhi questioned, “How many jobs has the state government created for the youth of Odisha? Over 40,000 women have gone missing, and no one knows their whereabouts. Women are being raped every hour, yet the government remains silent.”

He went on to accuse both the current BJP government and the previous BJD administration of exploiting the state's resources. “The only objective of this government is to loot Odisha’s natural resources. Just like the previous regime, this BJP government is letting 5-6 companies exploit everything—land, water, and forests. These resources belong to the tribals and no one has the right to snatch them away,” Gandhi asserted.

He also alleged that the BJP is undermining the Constitution across the country. “They tried to tamper with it in Bihar, and now in Odisha, they have put it under serious threat,” he added.

Highlighting the successful implementation of a caste-based census by Congress government in Telangana, he advocated for its introduction in Odisha. 

Rahul-Kharge

“We successfully conducted a caste-based census in Telangana to determine the exact population distribution across communities and understand their social and economic status. We want to bring the same here in Odisha. People should support this initiative. When the common people realize their rights, they will throw the BJP out of power,” Gandhi said at the ‘Save Constitution of India’ rally in Bhubaneswar.

Touching on the ongoing strike by drivers' associations, which has disrupted goods transport across the state, Gandhi alleged it was part of a BJP conspiracy to derail the Congress’ event.

“The BJP pressured the drivers’ association to hinder our rally. But we prevailed, as the association agreed to pause their strike for a day. The state government must take responsibility and address the legitimate demands of the protestors,” he added.

He further urged Congress workers in Odisha to remain fearless and dedicated in their mission to reach the people.

“You are all our Babbar Sher (majestic lions). Don’t fear anyone. The legacy of Mahatma Gandhi and great leaders flows through your veins. Go forward and win this battle against the BJP,” he told the crowd.

Rahul Gandhi is on a one-day visit to Odisha to galvanize party workers and review organizational preparedness. He was accompanied by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and General Secretary KC Venugopal. The trio landed at Bhubaneswar airport at 11:30 AM, where they were given a grand reception by the state Congress leadership before heading to the public meeting.