Indore, September 17, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Thursday stepped up his criticism of the Madhya Pradesh government ahead of his scheduled visit to Indore, alleging that tribal communities, children, students and other vulnerable sections were facing serious problems under the BJP-led administration.
Gandhi is scheduled to address the ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ programme in Indore on September 19, where he is expected to interact with students and young people. The Congress has described the event as a major student outreach programme.
In a social media post, Gandhi referred to reports of more than 30 tribal children dying in Balaghat district amid illness, malnutrition and gaps in basic healthcare facilities. He alleged that the state government’s response had been slow.
“In Balaghat, more than 30 tribal children have lost their lives due to illness, malnutrition and lack of basic healthcare facilities,” Gandhi said, alleging that the deaths reflected the government’s failure to respond adequately.
Reports from Balaghat have documented more than 30 child deaths in tribal-dominated areas, while health authorities have been carrying out screening, treatment, vaccination and monitoring. The Madhya Pradesh High Court has also sought a response from the state government on a PIL concerning the deaths.
Gandhi also raised concerns over malnutrition, access to clean drinking water and healthcare, and alleged that incidents involving adulterated medicines and illicit liquor reflected wider failures in protecting ordinary citizens.
Addressing Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, Gandhi said, “If you can spare a moment from lighting lamps and celebrating festivities, please take a look at the ground reality in the state.”
He said he was gathering feedback from students, youth and ordinary citizens ahead of his Indore interaction and alleged that the state’s education system was in a severely deteriorated condition.
“Students, children, the poor, Dalits, tribals, the backward classes, or women—every section of society is suffering,” Gandhi said.
He further alleged that the Madhya Pradesh government was “the most corrupt and poorly governed administration in India”.
The Congress leader’s remarks come as the Madhya Pradesh government highlights its welfare and development initiatives and the BJP intensifies its political activities in the state.
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