Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday took out a whirlwind tour of Pathanamthitta and Kottayam districts, addressing election rallies organised by the United Democratic Front (UDF).The campaign trail, which began from Adoor in the morning, also saw him take a brief bicycle ride at Pampady in the Puthuppally constituency, where he was canvassing for UDF candidate Chandy Oommen. The events were attended by senior Congress leaders, including Ramesh Chennithala and K.C. Venugopal.Addressing an election rally at Pampady, Mr. Gandhi announced that the first Cabinet meeting of the next UDF government would fix the price of rubber at ₹250 per kg. “This will be the first decision of the newly formed Kerala Cabinet. While the initial price will be ₹.250, it will subsequently be increased to ₹300 per kg, as outlined in the UDF manifesto,” he said.He also revealed that the UDF’s proposed public health insurance scheme, offering coverage of up to ₹25 lakh, would be named in honour of former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy.Stepping up criticism of the Union government, Mr. Gandhi targeted the current dispensation’s foreign policy, its alleged proximity to business interests and the functioning of the State government. Drawing a sharp comparison, he said that just as Donald Trump “controls” Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister, in turn, exerts influence over the Kerala Chief Minister.“Despite projecting himself as a protector of temples and Hinduism, Mr. Modi has not spoken out against the LDF government or its leaders over the alleged gold theft at the Sabarimala temple. This is because he wants the LDF to remain in power in Kerala,” he alleged.He further claimed that those who oppose Mr. Modi face scrutiny and action. “Everyone knows that anyone who stands up to Mr. Modi is targeted. Why is the Kerala Chief Minister not being questioned or investigated? Why are there no cases against him or his family? Because they are partners. The BJP knows that the Left cannot challenge it nationally. Only the Congress has the strength, commitment and ideology to do so,” he said.Mr. Gandhi also criticised the Foreign Contribution Regulation Amendment Bill 2026, alleging that it effectively centralises access to foreign funding. “The system is being designed in such a way that select entities can access funds, while others are excluded,” he said.Published - March 30, 2026 11:49 pm IST