In a first, PM Modi attacks Rahul Gandhi over Rafale allegations

On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was in Karnataka for the inauguration of a Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) factory, took a shot at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi without naming him. This is the first time the Prime Minister has responded to the allegations levelled by the Congress leader regarding the Rafale jets deal ahead of the 2019 general election.

PM Modi visited the Tumakuru district of Karnataka today to inaugurate the HAL helicopter factory. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and other senior defence ministry officials were also present for the inauguration.

Addressing the inauguration event in poll-bound Karnataka, PM Modi said: “Karnataka is the land of innovation. From drones to Tejas aircraft manufacturing is being done in the state. The state has become the first choice for investors. From modern assault rifles, aircraft carrier, to fighter jets are being manufactured by India.”

Reacting for the first time to the allegations levelled by Rahul Gandhi regarding the Rafale jet deal with French company Dassault Aviation ahead of 2019 Lok Sabha elections, PM Modi said: “Misinformation was spread about HAL, & many false allegations were made against our govt. Many working hours of Parliament were wasted over it. HAL’s Helicopter Factory & its rising power will unveil those who levelled false allegations. HAL boosting self-reliance in defence.”

Rahul Gandhi accused the Indian government of corruption in the purchase of 36 Rafale fighter jets from France in 2019. He claimed that the government overpaid for the jets and favoured a specific Indian industrialist by awarding him a contract to offset offset obligations under the deal rather than the HAL.