Rahul Gandhi Calls for an Inclusive India Rooted in Mutual Respect

Gudalur (Tamil Nadu), January 13: Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday said he wants to contribute to building an India where people treat each other with kindness and show respect for different languages, cultures and religions.

Speaking at the Golden Jubilee celebrations of St. Thomas English High School in Gudalur, Tamil Nadu, Rahul Gandhi addressed students and teachers, highlighting the critical role of education in shaping society in the age of artificial intelligence. He said that while information is easily available today, schools must help students convert information into knowledge and, more importantly, wisdom.

Referring to rapid technological changes, Gandhi noted that without wisdom, the information age could make society harsher and more divided. He stressed that educational institutions have a vital responsibility in nurturing thoughtful, balanced and compassionate citizens.

Sharing an interaction with students, the Congress leader said he asked them why they considered a particular teacher to be good. According to him, the students replied that the teacher listens to them and treats them with affection. Gandhi said this value of listening and empathy reflects the kind of India he wants to help build—an India where people are kind, respectful and understanding of differences.

Rahul Gandhi also spoke about the importance of humility, stating that it is a crucial quality not only for politicians but also for students and teachers. Drawing from his two decades in public life, he said humility helps individuals stay grounded and connected to people’s real concerns.

His visit to Tamil Nadu comes ahead of the 2026 state assembly elections, with political activity intensifying in the state. The upcoming polls are expected to witness a multi-cornered contest involving the ruling DMK-Congress alliance, the BJP-AIADMK-led front and actor-turned-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also scheduled to visit Tamil Nadu later this month, adding to the growing political momentum in the state.