**Rahul Gandhi Praises Indian Two-Wheeler Success in Colombia, Criticises Crony Capitalism and Democratic Erosion in India**
NEW DELHI: During his visit to Colombia, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi lauded the global success of Indian two-wheeler companies while delivering a strong critique of crony capitalism and what he described as a wholesale attack on democracy in India.
On the social media platform X, Gandhi shared a photo of himself standing in front of a Bajaj Pulsar and wrote, “Proud to see Bajaj, Hero & TVS doing so well in Colombia. Shows Indian companies can win with innovation, not cronyism. Great job.” This post appeared to be a subtle yet pointed commentary on the political patronage that benefits a select few corporations in India.
At a seminar held at EIA University in Medellin, Gandhi stated, “Three or four businesses taking over the whole economy, having a direct relationship with the Prime Minister, is rampant in India.” He alleged significant corruption at a centralized level and warned that such practices could undermine India’s economic and democratic systems.
Addressing broader challenges faced by India, Gandhi said, “Currently, there is a wholesale attack on the democratic system in India, so that is a risk. The other big risk is different conceptions — some 16-17 different languages, different religions. Allowing these different traditions to thrive, and giving them space to express themselves is very important for a country like India.”
He further emphasized the importance of democracy by contrasting India’s approach with that of China, stating, “We cannot do what China does, which is to suppress people and run an authoritarian system.”
https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2025/Oct/04/innovation-not-cronyism-rahul-showers-praises-on-indian-auto-companies