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Congress built banks, BJP dismantling them: Rahul Gandhi on IDBI sale

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has accused the BJP government of selling off public sector banks, contrasting the party's track record of establishing financial institutions. His remarks came in response to the government's plan to divest IDBI Bank.

LSN India · 30 October 2026

Congress built banks, BJP dismantling them: Rahul Gandhi on IDBI sale

Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has intensified his political attack on the BJP government, accusing it of dismantling public sector banking infrastructure built by his party over decades. Gandhi drew a sharp distinction between the Congress-era establishment of major banks and the current administration's divestment strategy, citing the proposed sale of IDBI Bank as a prime example.

The opposition leader's comments reflect growing concerns within Congress ranks about the privatization of state-owned financial institutions. Gandhi's rhetoric underscores the ideological divide between the two parties on the role of public sector enterprises in India's economic framework.

The IDBI Bank divestment has emerged as a contentious issue, with the government arguing that the sale will improve efficiency and reduce fiscal burden, while critics contend it represents a dismantling of institutional assets built through taxpayer investment.

Gandhi's offensive is part of a broader Congress strategy to mobilize support around concerns over privatization and its social implications. The party has positioned itself as a defender of public sector banking, arguing that such institutions serve crucial roles in financial inclusion and credit accessibility for underserved populations across India.