‘Do Not Disparage India’: Rijiju Cites Elon Musk To Target Rahul Gandhi, Points To GDP Growth

Last Updated:February 02, 2026, 11:25 IST

His remarks come amid sustained criticism by Gandhi of the BJP-led government’s economic management, including a reiteration of his “dead economy” comment

Rijiju said he was referring to Musk’s post not to elevate a foreign voice, but to underline India’s economic achievements. (Pic: PTI, AP)

Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Monday cited a post by Tesla CEO Elon Musk to push back against Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi’s criticism of the Indian economy and Budget 2026, urging him not to “disparage India" while attacking the government.

The BJP leader was responding to a social media post by Musk, who reacted to a global statistics report projecting India as the second-largest contributor to global GDP growth in 2026. Musk had shared a post by @stats_feed stating that China and India together would account for “43.6% of global growth," adding, “The balance of power is changing."

Rijiju said he was referring to Musk’s post not to elevate a foreign voice, but to underline India’s economic achievements amid domestic political debate.

“I normally do not react to statements which are not made by Indians. I’m quoting @elonmusk only to sensitise Rahul Gandhi ji that, while criticising the govt is a democratic right, do not disparage India & never belittle India’s achievement. Be a proud Indian," Rijiju wrote on X.

His remarks come amid sustained criticism by Gandhi of the BJP-led government’s economic management, including a reiteration of his “dead economy" comment and fresh objections to provisions in the Union Budget 2026–27.

News india ‘Do Not Disparage India’: Rijiju Cites Elon Musk To Target Rahul Gandhi, Points To GDP Growth

Read More