Sonia trashes charges, Cong NDA policy

She also said the BJP was ‘‘deliberately’’ raking up the issue to cover up the Vajpayee Government’s inability to solve problems facing the country, mainly problems of unemployment and those relating to farmers.

Earlier, at a rally in Jagdalpur which was marked by thin attendance, Sonia criticised the NDA Government. The poor turnout at the Lalbagh Ground rally left partymen worried about the Congress’ prospects in the tribal belt. The Congress chief hit out against the PM, questioning his moral right to seek another term after his Government failed to improve the lot of tribals, the poor and the under-privileged.

Sonia said her mother-in-law late Indira Gandhi and husband Rajiv Gandhi had taken several initiatives to protect the rights of the tribals. ‘‘You must try to recognise who your real well-wishers are and refuse to be swayed by false promises,’’ she cautioned. Sonia said the BJP becomes sympathetic to the cause of the tribals only at the time of elections.

‘‘The Centre is saying that everything is fine, when prices are increasing steeply and farmers are committing suicide. They should remember they cannot misguide the people for a longer period by saying everything is fine,’’ Sonia said.