Jaishankar criticizes 'Khata-Khat' promises: Subtle jab at Rahul Gandhi in Geneva

During an event in Geneva, Switzerland, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar appeared to take a veiled jab at Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi’s "khata-khat" campaign promise. Gandhi had used the term "khata-khat" to describe the ease with which the Congress party would transfer money into women’s bank accounts if elected. Jaishankar, speaking on infrastructure development under the Narendra Modi-led government, asserted that true progress requires substantial effort and diligence, not simplistic promises.

Emphasizing hard work

Addressing the Indian diaspora, Jaishankar remarked, “Life is not ‘khata-khat’; it is about hard work and diligence.” He emphasized that building infrastructure and human resources demands significant effort. “Anyone who has worked hard at their job understands this,” Jaishankar added. His comments underline the belief that real progress and development are achieved through dedicated work and sound policies, rather than quick fixes.

#WATCH | Interacting with the Indian community in Geneva, EAM Dr S Jaishankar says, "...Until you build infrastructure & human resources, have those policies in place, it is hard work. Life is not 'khata-khat', life is hard work and diligence..."

(Video source: Ministry of… pic.twitter.com/Bdcv76dNgJ

— ANI (@ANI) September 13, 2024

Gandhi’s ‘Khata-Khat’ controversy

The term “khata-khat” used by Rahul Gandhi during the Lok Sabha elections had become a social media sensation and was frequently used by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to critique the Congress party for its perceived failures in development during the UPA tenure. Gandhi’s promises were intended to appeal to voters with the allure of immediate financial benefits.

Manufacturing and global power

Jaishankar also addressed the importance of manufacturing for national power, stating, “A country cannot become a major global player without advancing its manufacturing capabilities.” He challenged the notion that India should shy away from developing its manufacturing sector, emphasizing that technological advancement is inherently linked to strong manufacturing.

Gandhi’s recent comments

In a recent discussion at the University of Texas, Rahul Gandhi highlighted China’s dominance in manufacturing as a key factor shielding it from unemployment issues—a problem faced by India and many Western nations. Gandhi argued that countries like China and Vietnam, which are production hubs, do not experience the same employment challenges.