Barnala : Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, launched a sharp critique of the Narendra Modi-led government at a political rally in Barnala, Punjab, on concerns over India’s data sovereignty and international trade agreements.
Addressing supporters, Gandhi asserted that in the 21st century, data has become a strategic resource, replacing oil as the key driver of global power. He warned that India’s data is critical to international technological and strategic competition, including the United States’ positioning vis-à-vis China. “The world talks about artificial intelligence, but without data, AI is meaningless—and India possesses that data,” he said.
Gandhi alleged that under the recent US-India trade arrangements, India’s data could be accessed and used by the United States without adequate safeguards, raising questions about national control and security.
On governance and political accountability, he urged citizens to recognize the difference between rhetoric and action. “Mere complaints will not change the country. True leadership is shown through action, not words,” Gandhi said, taking a dig at rival political leaders for what he described as hypocrisy and opportunism.
The rally also saw Gandhi encouraging public engagement in governance and asserting that people, rather than politicians, should ultimately determine accountability and justice in the nation.