Barnala, February 28, 2026: Addressing a massive rally in Barnala on Saturday, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi declared that the state of Punjab remains the foundational strength of the nation. Gandhi maintained that the resilience of the Punjabi people serves as a protector for the country, expressing his deep personal affection for the region and its citizens.
“Punjab is our strength. I am telling you, when I come here, I feel great joy, because I see the strength of India, the foundation of India here,” Gandhi stated during his address. He further affirmed his bond with the local population, adding, “You are our protector and we love you. Everything else is fine, politics is fine, but I love the people of Punjab. I adore them.”
The Congress leader also delivered a firm message regarding internal party discipline, warning that individual interests must not supersede the collective goal. Gandhi maintained that a solo player cannot win a match and insisted that leaders must function as a cohesive team to ensure success.
“It does not matter how big an individual is, as no one is bigger than the party,” Gandhi declared. He cautioned that if leaders do not work as team players, both he and party president Mallikarjun Kharge would be forced to take appropriate action. “Ground workers are actual players,” he added, asserting that those who refuse to collaborate would be placed in the reserve.
The leader noted that his appreciation for the state runs deep, stating that if he were to ever write a book, he would describe his respect for the people of Punjab in greater detail. He affirmed that while politics has its place, his primary connection remains with the residents who form the core of the country’s strength.
