Once dismissed by political analysts following the Congress party’s 2014 election disaster, where they secured only 44 seats, Rahul Gandhi has emerged as a formidable political figure. A decade later, he leads the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, representing the INDIA bloc, a coalition of 26 parties united against Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s NDA government.

Previously seen as a “reluctant” politician, Rahul Gandhi now appears to have found his footing, becoming a prominent voice in Parliament. As the Leader of the Opposition, he has made an impact with his fiery debates and savage replies. His speeches in the Lok Sabha have drawn particular attention, where he has aggressively challenged the BJP on issues such as the NEET paper leak and the Agniveer scheme.

Rahul Gandhi’s pointed remark, “Aap Hindu nahi ho” prompted Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take note. Undeterred, Gandhi argued that the BJP and RSS do not represent the Hindu population. He stressed that the BJP’s actions contradict the principles of non-violence and truth.

“All our great men have spoken about non-violence and finishing fear… But, those who call themselves Hindu only talk about violence, hatred, untruth,” he said.

On Monday, Rahul Gandhi launched a sharp critique of Budget 2024, describing it as a “chakravyuh” that traps India’s youth, women, farmers, and MSMEs. Drawing an analogy from the Mahabharata, he said that the chakravyuh was also known as a padmavyuh (lotus, the symbol of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

“In the 21st century, there is a new chakravyuh and that symbol is worn by the prime minister on his chest. What was done with Abhimanyu is being done with youth, women, farmers and MSMEs.” Gandhi said alleging that the chakravyuh was controlled by six people.

“This chakravyuh is also controlled by six people; Modi, Shah, Mohan Bhagwat, Ajit Doval and Adani and Ambani,” he said.

Gandhi’s expectation for the budget was that it would offer support to farmers, laborers, and small businesses. Instead, he argued, the budget reinforces the dominance of big monopolies and political control, eroding the democratic structure and contributing to what he termed the “deep state.”

Using themes of “Mohabbat ki dukaan” (shop of love) and the “Samvidhaan” (Constitution), Rahul Gandhi has continuously targeted the BJP. His Bharat Jodo Yatra, a journey across India, aimed to reconnect with the masses and revitalise the struggling Congress party. While his efforts led to Congress’ improved tally in the Lok Sabha, the NDA still managed to form the government at the Centre, with the BJP at the helm.

Rahul Gandhi’s new avatar appears to be resonating for now, but the true test lies ahead with the upcoming assembly elections in Maharashtra, Haryana, and Jharkhand. A victory in these states could firmly establish Gandhi and Congress as serious contenders for the 2029 general elections.