Rahul Gandhi’s Column On “Pliable” Maharajas Faces Royal Family Backlash

Members of India’s royal families have criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over his opinion column in The Indian Express, where he discussed how the East India Company allegedly manipulated “pliant maharajas and nawabs” to gain control of India. Gandhi suggested that the Company’s power stemmed from its chokehold over these rulers. His remarks sparked backlash, with royals like Rajasthan’s Deputy CM Diya Kumari, Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, and others defending the sacrifices of their ancestors for India’s unity. They argue that Gandhi’s portrayal is erroneous, ignoring the royal families' historical contributions and commitment to their people and the nation.