Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh on Friday, expressed shock and condemnation towards Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s remarks about the youth of Varanasi. Modi strongly criticized Gandhi for labeling UP’s youth as ‘nashedi’ (addicts), stating that it was a reflection of Gandhi’s own lack of awareness.

Modi, who has been in Varanasi for the inauguration and laying of foundation stones for development projects worth Rs 13,000 crore, took the opportunity to address Gandhi’s comments. He emphasized that those who lack clarity themselves are resorting to derogatory remarks about the youth of Uttar Pradesh.

“In the last 10 years, they spent their time abusing Modi. But now they are venting their frustration on the people. Those who are not in their senses are calling UP’s youth addicts,” Modi asserted, condemning Gandhi’s statement.

Gandhi, who is currently on his ‘Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra’, had earlier remarked about witnessing intoxicated youth in Varanasi during his visit. However, Modi countered by highlighting the accelerated pace of development in Varanasi over the past decade.

“Varanasi’s development has gained momentum in the last 10 years,” Modi stated, underscoring the positive changes witnessed in his parliamentary constituency.

Addressing a public gathering, Modi reiterated his commitment to improving the lives of the people of Varanasi, a city he described as having become integral to his identity during his tenure as its Member of Parliament.

During his visit, Modi also inaugurated a statue of Sant Ravidas and participated in the celebrations of his 647th birth anniversary. Additionally, he interacted with the winners of the Sansad Sanskrit Pratiyogita at the Banaras Hindu University.