Ahmadabad: Addressing a gathering in Mansa, Union Home Minister Amit Shah criticized the opposition alliance, likening it to "old wine in old bottle," and alleged that its leaders were involved in corruption amounting to ₹12 lakh crore. Shah took a dig at the Congress, stating that during its governance, India's economy stagnated at the 11th rank globally, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi elevated it to the 5th position.

Speaking at the foundation stone laying ceremony for a National Security Guard (NSG) regional center in Gujarat's Mansa town, Shah directed his remarks toward the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. An alliance of 26 opposition parties has formed the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) to challenge the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

Shah emphasized, "The UPA and Congress are a group of leaders involved in ₹12 lakh crore corruption. They have now changed their name, haven't they? But you must refer to them as UPA... Who will vote for those who have committed a scam of ₹12 lakh crore?" He cautioned against being misled, stating, "Old wine in a new bottle" applies here, and urged faith in the BJP's return to power under PM Modi's leadership.

Shah acknowledged that many did not witness India's struggle for independence but encouraged living for the nation's progress. He urged raising children steeped in patriotism and dedication to the nation's language, literature, culture, and heritage.

While not opposing English, Shah highlighted the importance of preserving regional languages like Gujarati. He stressed that understanding culture is crucial for the well-being of a nation, asserting that India has a heritage worth protecting and that the country should lead in areas like education, space, security, and economy.

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