Gujarat elections: Congress never knew tribals existed, says PM Narendra Modi

SURAT/BHARUCH: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday went all guns blazing against the Congress saying the party had only disrespected the tribals for years and never prioritized their welfare.
Addressing an election rally in Jambusar town of Bharuch district, Modi said, “Congress never knew that tribals existed in the country. Adivasis have existed in India since the time of Lord Rama and made an immense contribution to India’s culture and development. But Congress never honoured their contribution and instead left the adivasis to their fate.”
“For so many years after independence, there was no separate ministry for tribals till Atal Bihari Vajpayee government came to power. It not just carved out a ministry but also introduced a separate budget for Adivasis,” he said.
He also accused the Congress leaders of scoffing at tribal costume. “Till recently, if someone gave me a tribal turban or I wore an adivasi jacket, they used to make fun of me. They always insulted the tribals. One can’t imagine that Congress can do anything good either for Gujarat or tribals.” “While past Congress candidates left tribals to fend for themselves in Gujarat, it was BJP, after coming to power, resolved their issues such as education, health, malnutrition, and employment.” he added. TNN