“Chai and biscuits on me…”: Rahul Gandhi Claims ED Raid Planned in Response to “Chakravyuh” Speech

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi alleged on Friday that the Directorate of Enforcement (ED) is preparing to raid him following his "Chakravyuh" speech delivered in Parliament on July 29. The Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha claimed that sources within the ED informed him of the impending raid. Despite this, he expressed readiness to cooperate with the central probe agency. “Chai and biscuits on me,” said the Raebareli MP.

"Apparently, 2 in 1 didn't like my Chakravyuh speech. ED 'insiders' tell me a raid is being planned. Waiting with open arms, @dir_ed. Chai and biscuits on me” posted Rahul Gandhi on the social media platform “X”.

The Congress leader's remarks followed his critique of Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a discussion on the Union Budget 2024. Gandhi accused Modi of creating a modern-day "Chakravyuh," comparing it to the ancient formation from the Mahabharata that led to Abhimanyu's death. He asserted that the current administration is similarly entrapping various sectors of society.

"Thousands of years ago, in Kurukshetra, six people trapped Abhimanyu in a 'Chakravyuh' and killed him. I did a little research and found out that 'Chakravyuh' is also known as 'Padmavuyh'—which means 'Lotus formation'. In the 21st century, a new 'Chakravyuh' has been formed—in the form of a Lotus. The Prime Minister wears its symbol on his chest. What was done with Abhimanyu is being done with India—the youth, farmers, women, and small and medium businesses. Abhimanyu was killed by six people. Today, too there are six people in the centre of 'Chakravyuh'. Six people control India today too -Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, Mohan Bhagwat, Ajit Doval, Ambani and Adani,” said Rahul Gandhi.

BJP Lok Sabha MP Anurag Thakur responded to Gandhi's statements by mocking his understanding of the Mahabharata. Thakur described Gandhi's knowledge as "accidental" and suggested that the Congress Party itself has created numerous "Chakravyuhs." He enumerated what he termed as seven such formations, starting with the Congress's role in dividing the country. In reaction to Thakur's critique, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Thakur's speech, calling it "a perfect mix of facts and humour" that effectively addressed the issues raised by Gandhi​