"BJP is a principal opposition and we cannot be thieves. Thieves are those who are in power. They have the means to loot. We are a principal opposition party and we cannot be thieves, instead we are sentinels of government treasury," he told a BJP rally here, addressed by party prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi.
Gandhi had called BJP as a "party of thieves" and accused it of "looting natural resources" of Chhattisgarh yesterday.
He said Congress has adopted a policy of divide and rule after Independence. "In spite of ruling for 55 years, they have not allowed brotherhood among Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs, to flourish," he said.
However, BJP plays politics based on cherished values of humanity, he said. "BJP wants to woo people not by creating a sense of fear but by sense of confidence," he added.
Singh sought an answer from Congress for India not developing into a wealthy and strong nation even after ruling the country for 55 years.
"People of this country wants an answer from the Congress as to what is the reason that in spite of ruling the country for 55 years, India did not develop into a wealthy and strong nation as Japan? Congress has no answer," he said.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
