Congress attacks Modi government over ‘promoting’ monopolies; says it will end crony capitalism
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and party president Mallikarjun Kharge have accused the Modi government of fostering crony capitalism and monopolies. The criticism follows an exchange between Elon Musk and Rahul Gandhi regarding the influence of major Indian conglomerates.
Why it matters
The debate over market competition and corporate influence is a central theme in the ongoing political discourse regarding India's economic policy.
Targeting the Narendra Modi government for “promoting” monopolies, the Congress on Friday (October 9, 2026) said India needs a level playing field where every business has a fair chance to compete.
Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, said the Congress was committed to breaking the chain of crony capitalism.
His remarks came a day after his exchange on X with U.S. billionaire Elon Musk, who asked whether Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani was the “real boss” of India.
Mr. Musk’s comment came amid reports that his company, Starlink, was yet to receive the required security approvals to operate in India.
Responding to Mr. Musk’s post on Thursday (October 8), Mr. Gandhi said: “Wait till you discover the other guy.”
While the BJP criticised the Opposition leader for what appeared to be an endorsement of Mr. Musk’s comments, Mr. Gandhi issued a fresh statement.
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