Rahul Gandhi: The Congress party is my life. The people of India are my life

“The Congress party is my life. The people of India are now my life. And I will fight for the people of India and for this party” said Rahul Gandhi, the newly-appointed Congress vice president in his 45 minute emotionally-charged speech on Sunday at the Birla auditorium while addressing the All India Congress Committee session on the last day of the 'Chintan Shivir'.

“The Food Bill will ensure that no mother sees her child go hungry at night. Right to Information allows every Indian to take on the battle against corruption” said the Congress leader about the proposed food security bill by the Congress-led UPA government at the centre. “ There are people in high positions with no understanding of issues - this happens because we respect position not knowledge” he warned.

“The youth is angry as it is alienated. Until we start to empower people, we can't change anything in this country” cautioned Rahul Gandhi.” The corrupt talk of eradicating corruption and those who disrespect women talk of women's rights” further said the Congress Vice President.

“ India is more connected today. It is no longer possible to limit an idea whose time has come.. The Congress needs leadership development. Five years from now, we need to create 40-50 leaders who have the potential to run the country” said Rahul Gandhi.

Striking an emotional chord with the audience Rahul Gandhi continued “As a boy I loved to play badminton because it gave me balance in a complicated world. I was taught by two policemen who protected my grandmother and were my friends. They killed my grandmother and took way the balance”. “In the evening I saw my father address the nation. He was terrified of what lay ahead of him. But I saw a glimmer of hope. That hope has brought India where it is today,” added Rahul Gandhi recalling his father and former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi who was the champion of the modern India.

“Last night my mother came to my room and she sat and cried. Because she understands that the power that so many seek is poison. She can see it because she is not attached to it” said Rahul Gandhi.

The well drafted speech clearly gave a strong message. Rahul Gandhi wants to transform the system; He is not going to tolerate any nepotism in the party and he wants that power should be used to hear people’s voice. And this is a good signal for the party as well as for the country.