Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Friday (January 30, 2026) said that Mahatma Gandhi represents a way of thinking, not just a historical figure. He added that empires and ideologies driven by hatred have tried, and failed, to erase Gandhi’s ideas.
While paying tributes on Martyrs’ Day, Mr. Gandhi described Mahatma Gandhi as the “immortal soul of India.” He said Gandhi’s values continue to guide the nation even decades after his death.
Moreover, Rahul Gandhi said that Gandhi gave India more than Independence. He said Gandhi gave the country a moral foundation. According to him, this foundation rests on the belief that truth is stronger than authority and non-violence is stronger than fear.
In a post on social media platform X, written in Hindi, Mr. Gandhi said that arrogance of power has repeatedly tried to suppress Gandhi’s philosophy. However, he said those efforts have always failed.
He further stated that Gandhi’s way of thinking cannot disappear. He explained that Gandhi lives in the conscience of India and remains deeply rooted in its values.
Meanwhile, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also paid homage to the Father of the Nation. He shared lines from a bhajan often sung by Mahatma Gandhi. Mr. Kharge said the path to healing hatred lies in truth, compassion, and non-violence.
Similarly, Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra remembered Gandhi on his death anniversary and paid tribute to his teachings and sacrifices.
Additionally, Congress general secretary (communications) Jairam Ramesh recalled letters written in 1948 by Jawaharlal Nehru and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The letters criticised the activities of the Hindu Mahasabha and the RSS after Gandhi’s assassination. Mr. Ramesh shared excerpts from these letters on social media.
Furthermore, AICC general secretary (organisation) K.C. Venugopal warned against the continued spread of hatred and violence. He said such ideologies threaten Gandhi’s legacy even today. He urged people to remain vigilant and uphold Gandhi’s ideals.
Mahatma Gandhi died on January 30, 1948, after Nathuram Godse assassinated him in Delhi. India observes the day as Martyrs’ Day. The nation remembers Gandhi for his leadership, his commitment to peace, and his lifelong struggle for justice and freedom.
