New Delhi, Jan 16 (NationPress) The strong rebound of the Indian economy, as highlighted by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which referred to India as the growth engine of the world, provided the BJP with new political ammunition to criticize the Congress party and its leader, Rahul Gandhi.

BJP spokesperson C.R. Kesavan drew a stark contrast between Rahul's previous assertions of “India being a dead economy” and his latest claim of “India as a bright spot”. He challenged the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha to apologize to the nation for what he termed “irresponsible and grossly misleading” remarks.

In a biting criticism, Kesavan labeled Rahul as the “Leader of Pessimism” and accused him of “maliciously lying and badmouthing the Indian Economy”, questioning whether he would extend an apology to India and its citizens.

“The IMF’s praise for the Indian economy serves as a strong rebuke to Rahul Gandhi’s fabricated narrative and cheap political agenda, which aimed to undermine our nation’s impressive progress and growth,” he further asserted.

The BJP's fierce condemnation of Rahul followed the IMF's commendation of the Indian economy, which noted its “stronger than expected” growth in the third quarter.

India has recorded a GDP growth rate of 7.8% and 8.2% in Q1 and Q2, respectively, with Q3 projected to exceed 7% growth. A prominent domestic agency estimates the country's overall growth rate for FY26 at 7.6%.

The IMF, set to release its World Economic Outlook next week, stated on Thursday, “The third quarter growth in India was stronger than anticipated,” with potential upgrades to its forecast.

Julie Kozack, Director of the Communications Department at the IMF, remarked to reporters on India's growth narrative in the current fiscal year, stating, “India is a key growth engine for the world.”

The BJP national spokesperson, while sharing the IMF’s endorsement, pointed out that despite the Congress leader’s continued rejection by the populace, he persists in “abusing and slandering Bharat to promote his narrow, failed political agenda.”

Last year, Rahul ignited significant controversy by labeling the Indian economy a “dead economy,” which infuriated the ruling party.

In July 2025, while addressing the media, Rahul supported a comment made by U.S. President Donald Trump, stating, “Yes, he is right. Everyone knows the Indian economy is a dead economy. I am pleased that President Trump has spoken a truth. The entire world recognizes that the Indian economy is a dead economy.”