Rahul Gandhi Addresses US NRIs gathered at Boston: Champions Democratic Reform, Youth Empowerment, and Electoral Integrity
Los Angeles/Apr 26, 2025
NRIpress.club/ Ramesh/A.Gary Singh
Boston, MA – April 20, 2025 – In a warm and impactful address to the Indian diaspora,
Hon. Shri Rahul Gandhi, Member of Parliament and Leader of the Opposition spoke to
a packed audience at the Marriott Boston Long Wharf during a special Meet and Greet
hosted by the Indian Overseas Congress, USA. The event drew attendees from across
New England and beyond, eager to hear his vision for India's future.
Gandhi ji began by expressing heartfelt appreciation for the community's discipline and
dedication. He noted that the Indian Overseas Congress and its members serve as vital
ambassadors for the Congress Party and India itself. "Your presence and commitment bring great respect to our country abroad. This relationship we share is not merely
political—it's a bond of family, rooted in love, values, and mutual respect,"he said.
The core of his address focused on ongoing efforts to transform the Indian National
Congress from within. Gandhi detailed a reform initiative underway in Gujarat aimed at
decentralizing power within the party's structure. He emphasized empowering local
leaders by giving decision-making authority to district presidents and their committees. "We're building a system where voices from the ground—including those of our
overseas brothers and sisters—will be heard and respected. Constructive competition,
accountability, and accessibility will shape the new Congress,"he affirmed.
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In a stirring reflection on India's diversity, Gandhi spoke against the growing tide of
ideological centralization under the RSS-BJP regime. "ndia is not defined by one
language, one religion, or one tradition. Its soul is pluralistic, where a Punjabi, a
Malayali, and a Gujarati can sit together in harmony. This is India, which is under attack
today." He warned that attempts to impose a singular ideological narrative threaten the
very foundation of Indian democracy and unity.
He also drew attention to the challenges the opposition faces in today';s India, including
the capture of mainstream and social media, which limits public access to alternative
viewpoints. Despite these roadblocks, Gandhi pointed to the recent Lok Sabha
elections, where the BJP faced unexpected resistance, as a sign that the tide is turning.
"This is a fight between two ideologies—one that believes India belongs to everyone
and another that seeks to concentrate power and wealth among a select few. We've
faced harder battles before, and we will prevail."
Following his keynote, Gandhi opened the floor to an unscripted Q&A session,
responding to critical questions from the audience. When asked about voting
irregularities in Maharashtra, he raised serious concerns about the integrity of India's electoral system. He cited that between 5:30 and 7:30 PM during the state election,
over 650,000 votes were reportedly cast—a physical impossibility based on voter speed
and capacity. Requests for official videography, as required by law, were denied and
followed by changes to the law to prevent such requests in the future. "This indicates a
compromised Election Commission,"he said. "The issues with Electronic Voting
Machines (EVMs) and voter trust are not just ours—even international voices like Tulsi
Gabbard have called them hackable. We will continue to raise these issues despite
resistance"
A young student in the audience asked how the youth could play meaningful roles in
politics despite barriers. Gandhi responded candidly, emphasizing that politics is not
easy—it is often grueling and requires resilience. However, he encouraged passionate
young minds to get involved through internships and party programs. "If you are patient
and committed, we will gladly open the way for you. The future belongs to those who
are willing to work for it."
Another question addressed the growing ideological infiltration in India';s universities,
particularly the appointment of RSS-aligned faculty. Gandhi agreed that the educational
system is being misused as a tool for ideological indoctrination rather than academic
excellence. "This is damaging our intellectual foundation, and when we return to power,
we will look into these appointments seriously."
In his closing remarks, Gandhi acknowledged the short nature of this U.S. visit, having
been invited primarily to speak at Brown University. However, he promised to return
soon, with plans to visit cities such as in Illinois, California, Washington, and New
Jersey. To enthusiastic applause, he also committed to bringing his sister, Priyanka
Gandhi Vadra, along on a future trip.
Following the great speech of Dr. Sam Pitroda ji, President Mohinder Singh Gilzian
welcomed everyone and emphasized that “…This is not just a political battle - this is a
moral struggle to protect the very soul of India, a struggle to defend our Constitution,
preserve our democracy, and uphold the values our freedom fighters once dreamed of.” He added that we are witnessing a government that, even after losing its moral
mandate, continues to operate with authoritarian arrogance.
George Abraham, the vice-chair of the Indian Overseas Congress, in his speech,
encouraged the Boston Diaspora to be a more visible advocate on behalf of democracy,
freedom, and equal justice. "Indians are the largest group of economic refugees
anywhere in the world where we would like to have our culture respected and religious
freedom protected; however, if our motherland is failing to defend those values towards
its minority citizens, what message are we sending abroad?" he further implored.
Secretary-General Harbachan Singh thanked Sri Rahul Gandhi ji, Dr. Sam Pitroda ji, all
the Boston group and all other supporters, Working Presidents Pradeep Samala of
North East Zone, Devinderpal Bhullar of West Coast Zone, Gurdev Singh Hayer of
South West Zone, Vice President John Joseph, Vice President Baldev Randhawa,
Treasurer Dr. Joshua Jayasingh, and other senior members such as Chapter Presidents
and General Secretaries of the IOC.USA by recognizing each one by name, and
expressed gratitude to the overall jam-packed massive audience for their enthusiastic
rendering of the event a very successful one.
The evening concluded with a renewed sense of solidarity among attendees, many of
whom had traveled great distances to engage with a leader they see as a torchbearer of
truth, democracy, and compassion. As Gandhi ji reminded the audience, “In the
marketplace of hatred, we must open a shop of love.” His message was clear—India’s
soul is plural, resilient, and worth fighting for.
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