Rahul rakes up Yeddyurappa diaries at Bihar rally

Congress president Rahul Gandhi asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to order a probe by the newly-appointed Lokpal into the corruption allegations involving former Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa and Union Ministers.

“You must have read media reports how the former Chief Minister of Karnataka Yeddyurappa paid Rs 150 crore to the Union Finance Minister. The newly-constituted Lokpal should investigate how a person, who was CM of a State from May 2008 to July 2011, could pay around Rs 1800 crore to the top BJP leaders,” said Rahul in his fresh attack on Modi.

“The Prime Minister, who calls you ‘mitron’ (friends), is actually working for 15 industrial friends and calls them ‘Bhai’….Nirav Bhai, Mehul Bhai, Ambani Bhai…” said Rahul while imitating PM, even as the crowd, mostly from rural hinterland in Purnia, burst into laughter.

Rahul was addressing a Congress rally in Purnia, also called Seemanchal of Bihar in North-east part of the State. This pocket constitutes of four Lok Sabha constituencies – Purnia, Katihar, Araria and Kishanganj. While Kishanganj has 70 per cent Muslim population, Katihar, Araria and Purnia has 35, 42 and 30 per cent minorities.

“Unlike Modi, who promised to deposit Rs 15 lakh in your bank account or provide jobs to 2 crore unemployed every year, I don’t make false promises. I would, however, assure you on two fronts: First, if Congress is voted to power, we will waive off farm loan in the next ten days. And secondly, a minimum income guarantee (MIG) scheme will be launched for all those who are poor and unemployed,” said Rahul.

In a departure from his previous speeches, Rahul did not harp much on Ambani, Rafale or airstrikes. But he did remind the crowd about problems they faced during demonetisation and faulty implementation of GST.

“My suggestion to the farmers and youths of Bihar is: You have vast agricultural land. Opt for fruit processing units in your adjoining areas. This will not only help multiply your returns but boost rural economy too,” said Rahul.

Former MP from Purnia, Pappu Singh, who recently joined Congress and is likely to be the party nominee from Purnia, was also present on the dais.