Congress leader Rahul Gandhi tapped into the emotion of Tamil pride on Saturday as he started a three-day visit to Tamil Nadu.
Speaking to supporters in Coimbatore, Rahul attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Rahul was quoted by news agency ANI as saying, "Mr Narendra Modi has no respect for the culture, language and people of Tamil Nadu. He thinks that Tamil people, language and culture should be subservient to his ideas and culture."
Rahul alleged that Modi's perception of 'New India' is “that people of Tamil Nadu should be second-class citizens in this country. There are multiple languages and cultures in this country, we feel all languages—Tamil, Hindi, Bengali, English—have a state in this country."
Rahul also spoke about the ongoing protests against the Centre’s farm laws.
“The farmers will be made servants of companies and that is why we are fighting against them [Modi government]. I believe that Tamil Nadu will set an example for India. It is very unfortunate that farmers and youths are not given opportunities in the state. That is why we are working to help you,” Rahul was quoted as saying by ANI.
Rahul's visit will cover the western districts of Tamil Nadu including Tiruppur, Erode and Karur. NDTV reported Rahul would do roadshows, interact with farmers, weavers and staff of MSMEs. Rahul's visit comes months before Assembly polls in the state.
Before his visit, Rahul had tweeted, "I am delighted to be back in Tamil Nadu today to spend time with my Tamilian brothers and sisters in the Kongu belt. Together, we will defend & preserve the unique culture of the Tamils against the attacks by Modi govt."
On a trip to Madurai two weeks ago, Rahul affirmed his commitment to protect Tamil culture.