Kochi, Jan 19 (NationPress) During a significant gathering of the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) in Kochi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, delivered a powerful message of resilience. He commended nearly 7,800 Congress representatives for their triumph in the December 2025 local body elections.

This event served as the UDF's first major mobilization post-election and highlighted its revitalized confidence ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections.

Describing the electoral outcome as a “remarkable victory”, Rahul Gandhi emphasized that safeguarding the Constitution is intertwined with enhancing grassroots democracy.

“To defend the Constitution, we must bolster the third tier of governance, where you have excelled,” he stated, recalling the Congress's role in the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments that empowered local self-governments.

Rahul Gandhi drew a striking ideological distinction, stating that while the BJP-RSS advocates for the centralization of power, the Congress firmly supports decentralization.

“They seek obedience, not engagement. They disregard the people's voice,” he remarked, accusing the current government of fostering a “culture of silence” to concentrate wealth among a handful of corporate entities.

In reference to his earlier meeting with renowned author Dr. M. Leelavathy, he noted her concerns about the pervasive silence across India.

“I assure you that no one can silence the voice of Kerala. The forthcoming elections will showcase Kerala's resounding expression,” he proclaimed.

Rahul Gandhi maintained that he has consistently asserted in discussions in Delhi that the UDF is poised to win both local body and Assembly elections.

Nevertheless, he stressed that the more pressing issue is what the Congress and UDF can achieve once in power, identifying unemployment as Kerala's most urgent challenge and advocating for a clear, people-focused vision.

Responding to inquiries from the crowd, he assured that a Congress-led UDF government would prioritize listening to the populace and ensuring accessibility.

Regarding the future of the weakened MGNREGA, he stated that the initiative, founded by the UPA to guarantee minimum wages and dignity in labor, is under attack as the current administration is reluctant to uphold minimum wage standards and opposes decentralized execution.

“They aim to govern the country from Delhi through bureaucratic control,” he criticized.

“However, during the Covid crisis, it was MGNREGA that provided support to millions,” Rahul Gandhi added.

Commending Kerala's political culture, communal harmony, and robust grassroots accountability, he reminded the newly elected officials of the trust placed in them by the populace.

“Value and protect that trust. As Congress members, you are the guardians of the Constitution — and you will not permit a culture of silence to take hold,” he concluded.