Delivering the keynote address on the opening day of the NDTV World Summit 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a scathing attack on Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi and the Congress party. PM Modi accused the opposition leadership of attempting to defame the nation globally, stalling parliamentary business, and allowing radical elements (“dimagi Naxals”) to dictate party strategy.
Key Highlights & PM Modi’s Remarks
1. Criticism of Foreign Remarks and Global Reputation
-
Allegation of Defamation: PM Modi noted that while the international community is seeking stability, certain domestic political figures are attempting to create instability and asking foreign nations to intervene.
“When the entire world is in search of a new order, some people are dreaming of disorder in India… These people go abroad and defame India. They ask foreigners to intervene.”
2. “Failed Product” Jibe at Rahul Gandhi
-
Repeated Launch Attempts: Drawing an explicit comparison to space missions at Sriharikota, the Prime Minister questioned the Congress party’s repeated attempts to promote its leadership.
“Sriharikota does not see as many launches as the Congress tries, unsuccessfully, to launch its leader in a year… To save one family from the stain of failure, the Congress is now putting India’s achievements, India’s greatness, and its development at stake.”
3. Congress Termed a “Parasite”
-
Suppressing Internal & Opposition Talent: PM Modi accused the Congress leadership of acting as a “parasite” (parjeevi) that prevents other talented opposition members from speaking in Parliament to keep the focus entirely on a single family.
-
Ideological Shift: He asserted that “intellectual Naxals” (dimagi Naxals) have taken control of the party’s ideological framework, shifting its focus toward systemic destruction rather than constructive political debate.
Context: The Prime Minister’s address took place during the opening day of the NDTV World Summit 2026, where he contrasted India’s rising global stature with what he characterized as negative domestic political rhetoric.

