Congress run by 'tukde tukde' gang and urban Naxals, it hates even Ganpati puja: PM Modi

Mumbai: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday called the Congress the "most corrupt" in the country, accusing it of being run by divisive elements and "urban Naxals." Addressing a public meeting in Wardha, Maharashtra, to mark one year since the launch of the Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Yojana, Modi said, "The Congress you see today is not the same party that Mahatma Gandhi was once associated with. Hatred has consumed it, and the soul of patriotism has departed."

Modi also accused the Congress of disrespecting India's culture and gods, claiming its leaders deliver anti-national speeches during foreign visits. Without directly naming Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, he said, "When Congress leaders go abroad, they undermine the nation and insult our traditions and culture. Now, they even criticise my worship of Lord Ganesh. How else can you explain their disapproval?"

Referring to his recent visit to Chief Justice of India Chandrachud’s residence for Ganesh puja, Modi remarked, "A party that respects our culture would never disrespect Ganpati puja."

With the Maharashtra Assembly elections approaching, Modi urged voters to prevent the Maha Vikas Aghadi from returning to power, warning that it would hinder the state’s development.

During the event, Modi also distributed certificates and loans to beneficiaries of the PM Vishwakarma Yojana. He launched the ‘Acharya Chanakya Skill Development’ scheme and the ‘Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Women Startup Scheme.’

Discussing the Vishwakarma Yojana, Modi emphasised his government's commitment to creating a better future through skill development and the principle of "shram to samriddhi" (hard work to prosperity). He added that Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals would guide this vision to reality.

The Prime Minister expressed dissatisfaction that post-independence governments did not give due respect to India’s traditional skills. He highlighted how previous administrations neglected the “Vishwakarma” community and its crafts, causing India to lag in the race toward progress and modernity.

Modi also acknowledged the contributions of SC, ST, and OBC communities in preserving traditional skills and criticised past governments for ignoring their potential. He said the current government has ended this "anti-backward mentality."

Finally, Modi praised Maharashtra’s farmers for their role in the state's progress, emphasising that the nation’s prosperity is closely linked to the well-being of its farmers.