Prime Minister Modi Criticises Congress for Betraying DMK Alliance

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a strong critique against the Congress party during a rally at HAL Airport in Bengaluru on May 10, 2026. Modi accused Congress leaders of betraying their long-term ally, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), claiming that the party has chosen a path of betrayal driven by a lust for power.

Modi stated that the Congress party had maintained a relationship with the DMK for 25 to 30 years, emphasising that the DMK played a significant role in bolstering Congress's rule for a decade prior to 2014. He remarked, “Congress had a relationship with DMK for 25 to 30 years. The 10 years of Congress rule before 2014 were due to DMK’s guarantee.” This sentiment was conveyed as he addressed his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) supporters.

The Prime Minister further labelled Congress as a “parasite party,” indicating that they would abandon their alliances at the first opportunity. According to him, this behaviour stems from Congress's inability to effectively govern and maintain stability within its own ranks.

Modi highlighted the discord within Congress and its allies, suggesting that they blame external factors for their electoral failures. He rallied his audience by touting the BJP’s governance record over the past twelve years, claiming success across 21 regions where BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) governments are in place. “We work on the mantra of development,” he asserted, challenging Congress's narrative of instability now evident in states they govern.

The Prime Minister pointed to various states as examples of Congress governance issues. He cited Andhra Pradesh's difficulties in government functions, the inability to agree on power-sharing in Kerala, and financial troubles faced by Congress-run administrations in Himachal Pradesh and Telangana, where he stated farmers' issues had become increasingly dire.

In recalling the political landscape, Modi noted how the BJP's seat count in West Bengal surged from three to over 200 within a couple of election cycles, asserting that similar successes could be replicated in Kerala.

The rally attracted several prominent BJP figures, including former Chief Ministers B.S. Yediyurappa and Basavaraj Bommai, along with Union Minister Pralhad Joshi. This rally was part of a broader campaign as India approaches crucial elections, with Modi seeking to solidify BJP's foothold amidst ongoing political rivalries.

As the electoral contests loom, speeches like Modi's resonate deeply among party supporters and illustrate the charged atmosphere within Indian politics, reflecting ongoing rivalries and alliances.

The BJP’s campaign strategy appears focused on showcasing its governance achievements while undermining opposition parties, particularly Congress, positioning itself as a party of development against perceived political instability associated with its rivals.