Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, currently on an international outreach tour, has brought the spotlight to Indian innovation on the global stage, praising the remarkable success of Indian two-wheeler manufacturers Bajaj, Hero, and TVS in Colombia. His comments, delivered both on social media and during an academic engagement in Medellín, have ignited a fresh conversation about the strengths and challenges facing Indian industry and democracy.
On October 3, 2025, Gandhi took to social media platform X to publicly commend the three Indian automotive giants. "Proud to see Bajaj, Hero & TVS do so well in Colombia. Shows Indian companies can win with innovation, not cronyism. Great job," he wrote, as reported by LatestLY. His message resonated with many, underscoring the global competitiveness of Indian firms and their ability to succeed in international markets through ingenuity and hard work rather than political favoritism.
This recognition comes as Gandhi continues his international tour, which aims to strengthen ties with the Indian diaspora, students, and academics across Latin America. The Congress leader is currently in Colombia and has plans to visit several other countries in the region. His engagement is part of a broader outreach program designed to project India's soft power and foster dialogue on issues of governance, economy, and innovation.
During a session with students at EIA University in Medellín on October 2, Gandhi shifted from economic praise to political critique, voicing deep concerns about the state of Indian democracy under the current government. According to his remarks, as reported by LatestLY, Gandhi warned that India's democratic institutions are being systematically weakened and centralized, with power increasingly concentrated in the hands of a few.
"I’m very optimistic about India because of its cultural diversity, technological strength, and healthcare system," Gandhi told the students. His optimism, however, was tempered by a stark warning: "The country faces significant risks if its democratic framework continues to erode." He emphasized that the pluralistic and diverse nature of Indian society is ill-suited to authoritarian governance, drawing a clear distinction between India and China. "We can’t do what China does, which is suppress people and run an authoritarian system. Our design will just not accept that," Gandhi asserted.
Gandhi's critique extended to economic policy as well, particularly the 2016 demonetisation move implemented by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government. The policy, which involved the sudden withdrawal of high-denomination currency notes from circulation, was intended to curb black money and promote digital transactions. However, Gandhi dismissed it as a failure. "They demonetised currency with the idea that they'd get rid of cash. Doesn’t work. As a policy, it was a failure," he said during his interaction in Colombia.
The Congress leader also raised the alarm over what he described as rampant, centralized corruption in India. He accused the current government of enabling a system where a handful of businesses dominate the economy through direct relationships with the country's leadership. "In India, we have a huge amount of corruption now at a very, very centralised level. Three-four businesses are taking over the whole economy, having a direct relationship with PM. Corruption is rampant in India (now)," Gandhi alleged, as reported by LatestLY.
Gandhi's remarks are notable not only for their content but also for their timing and venue. Addressing these issues from an international platform, particularly in a region where Indian companies are making significant inroads, adds a layer of complexity to the narrative. On one hand, he celebrates the achievements of Indian industry abroad; on the other, he paints a picture of domestic challenges that threaten the very foundations of India's democracy and economy.
The performance of Bajaj, Hero, and TVS in Colombia is indeed a remarkable story. These companies have managed to carve out a substantial market share in Latin America, competing successfully against established global brands. Their success is often attributed to a combination of affordable pricing, robust technology, and a keen understanding of local consumer needs—factors that Gandhi highlighted as evidence of Indian innovation at its best.
Industry analysts point out that the Latin American two-wheeler market has long been dominated by Japanese and European manufacturers. The entry and subsequent rise of Indian brands signal a shift in consumer preferences and the growing reputation of Indian engineering. Bajaj, Hero, and TVS have not only captured market share but have also contributed to job creation and skill development in their host countries, further strengthening India's image as a reliable economic partner.
Gandhi's emphasis on innovation over cronyism strikes a chord in a country where economic growth is often marred by allegations of favoritism and regulatory capture. His message, that Indian companies can win abroad without relying on political connections, is likely to resonate with both domestic and international audiences. It also serves as a subtle challenge to the government to foster a more level playing field at home.
However, Gandhi's warnings about the centralization of power and the erosion of democratic institutions have sparked debate back in India. Supporters of the current administration argue that the government has taken decisive steps to modernize the economy and improve governance, pointing to initiatives like Digital India and Make in India as evidence of progress. Critics, meanwhile, echo Gandhi's concerns, citing instances of alleged overreach, curbs on dissent, and the concentration of economic power.
The controversy surrounding the 2016 demonetisation policy remains a flashpoint in Indian politics. Proponents claim it was a bold move to tackle black money and promote formalization, while detractors, including Gandhi, argue that it caused widespread disruption without delivering on its promises. The policy's impact on small businesses, the informal sector, and rural communities continues to be a subject of study and debate.
Gandhi's call for decentralization as a remedy for corruption reflects a broader philosophical divide in Indian politics. Decentralization, he argues, would empower local governments and communities, making it harder for a few powerful interests to capture the system. This vision is rooted in India's long tradition of federalism and grassroots democracy, but its implementation has often been uneven and contested.
As Gandhi continues his tour of Latin America, his dual message of celebrating Indian achievement and warning against domestic complacency is likely to attract attention both at home and abroad. Whether his critiques will translate into political momentum remains to be seen, but his ability to connect global success stories with broader questions of governance and justice ensures that the conversation will continue.
For now, the success of Bajaj, Hero, and TVS in Colombia stands as a testament to the potential of Indian industry when driven by innovation and integrity—a story that, as Gandhi suggests, deserves both recognition and reflection.
