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Tuesday, January 20, 2026

‘We are not Vishwaguru, it’s a myth that India is on everybody’s mind’: Sam Pitroda (IANS Interview)

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Sam Pitroda Backs Rahul Gandhi’s Call on Vote Theft and Youth Power in Indian Democracy

In a candid chat with , Indian Overseas Congress Chairman Sam Pitroda has raised serious red flags about India’s electoral system, foreign policy, and how the world sees us. He stands firmly behind Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi’s sharp criticism of "vote theft" and his push for young people to step up and protect democracy. Pitroda calls on everyone—from civil society and political parties to the youth—to join hands and keep India’s democratic spirit alive.

Pitroda doesn’t buy into the BJP’s talk of India as the "Vishwaguru" (world teacher). He calls it just propaganda and warns that democracies around the globe face big threats right now.

On Rahul Gandhi’s Warnings About Election Fraud

Rahul Gandhi recently slammed the Election Commission, accusing it of "vote theft." Pitroda agrees wholeheartedly. "We’ve been saying for years that something’s off with our elections," he told . "I flagged issues with EVMs 3-4 years ago, but no one listened. Now, Rahul is spot on—we need to support him and make his voice louder."

He stresses that trust in the election process is fading fast. "The big question is: Can we guarantee free and fair elections? Vote theft is real, and it’s not about Hindu-Muslim divides or party politics. It’s a basic right. The Election Commission must answer for this, and the Supreme Court should step in if needed."

Youth’s Role in Saving Democracy

Rahul Gandhi urged Gen Z to fight for democracy, and Pitroda sees this as a smart move. "It’s not about copying protests in Nepal or Bangladesh," he says. "Elections shape the future for the young ones more than for us older folks. Rahul can’t do it alone—political parties, civil society, lawyers, and youth leaders all need to pitch in."

Pitroda believes India’s youth hold the power to change things. "Young people can topple governments and bring real change, like we saw in the 1960s Vietnam protests. But keep it constructive—no burning or throwing stuff. Add your energy to Rahul’s voice on issues like economy, unemployment, poverty, minorities, Dalits, OBCs, and violence."

He also urges INDIA bloc leaders to rally behind Rahul. "People deserve free and fair elections. Walk shoulder-to-shoulder with him."

Slamming BJP’s Polarization Tactics and Soros Claims

Critics say the BJP polarizes Hindu votes by targeting minorities. Pitroda agrees it’s a worry. "India has 200 million Muslims—they’re Indians too, and we must live together," he says. He points to the chaos in neighbors like Nepal, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. "Our region is burning. As the biggest country with 1.5 billion people, India must lead for peace and prosperity in South Asia. We can’t divide people."

On BJP’s attacks linking Congress to George Soros, Pitroda calls it nonsense. "Total lies. I’ve never met Soros or spoken to him. Congress has no ties there."

Foreign Policy and US Tariffs: A Wake-Up Call

Pitroda isn’t impressed with India’s foreign policy under PM Modi. "Focus on our neighborhood first," he insists. "We can’t thrive if South Asia is unstable. We have a moral duty to bring peace—stop chasing global show-offs and work together with neighbors."

He slams the US tariffs on India under Trump. "A 50% tariff hike is a huge blow. It hits Indian businesses, jobs, and exports hard. Finding new markets will take time—this isn’t good for India at all."

On the Saudi-Pakistan deal and Kashmir’s special status, Pitroda pushes for better ties. "We share cultural roots with Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Nepal. I’ve visited them and felt at home. End the violence and build peace—no more fighting neighbors."

Rahul Gandhi’s Global Appeal and BJP’s Election Face

Even Pakistani cricketer Shahid Afridi praised Rahul Gandhi recently. Pitroda sees Rahul’s image shining brighter. "He’s bright, energetic, well-read, and speaks from a place of morals. The propaganda against him is dying down. The world needs young leaders for democracy, human rights, and equality—Rahul fits that bill."

As for BJP projecting PM Modi as the face of every election, Pitroda says personalities aren’t everything. "People come and go, but India goes on. It’s about the next generation’s 70-75 years, not just one leader."

On Congress delaying CM announcements in states like Bihar, he explains: "It’s our tradition in a parliamentary system—we pick leaders who add value, not pre-declare like a presidential race. But media control, PR spending, lies, and misinformation have twisted public opinion. We think you need a ‘strong face’ to win, which hurts democracy. What matters is guarding our election system, win or lose."

India’s Global Image: Myth vs Reality

Global leaders sent birthday wishes to PM Modi, but Pitroda calls the "Vishwaguru" narrative overhyped. "It’s propaganda. Ask my neighbors—they barely know about Modi or India. The world covers us for economy, population, and business chances, not as world gurus. Let’s focus on real progress, not myths."



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