Congress leader hits out at RSS after Ram Madhav’s remarks on Russian oil imports spark controversy
April 25, 2026: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi launched a sharp attack on RSS leader Ram Madhav over his remarks on India’s oil imports from Russia. Gandhi termed Madhav’s comments “factually wrong” and used the opportunity to criticise the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), calling it a “Surrender Sangh” and accusing it of promoting “farzi nationalism.”
The controversy began after Madhav, speaking at a panel discussion in the United States, claimed that India had agreed to stop purchasing oil from Russia and Iran and had accepted steep US tariffs. His remarks quickly drew attention, prompting him to issue a clarification. Madhav admitted that his statements were incorrect, stating that India had neither agreed to halt Russian oil imports nor accepted tariff measures without protest, and apologised for the factual errors.
The issue comes amid global energy concerns linked to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil and gas supply. The controversy has added a political dimension to India’s foreign policy debates, with opposition leaders using the remarks to question the government’s stance while the ruling side seeks to clarify its position.