Rahul Gandhi Raises Balaghat Tribal Issues, Targets MP Govt

Congress leader and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi has raised concerns over the condition of tribal communities in Balaghat, Madhya Pradesh, highlighting issues related to malnutrition, healthcare, education, land rights and access to government welfare schemes.

बालाघाट में आकर ऐसा लगा- जैसे हिंदुस्तान के बीच में ही हिंदुस्तान की सरकार नहीं है।

यहां बहुत सारे बच्चों की मृत्यु कुपोषण और अन्य बीमारियों के कारण हुई है, लेकिन सरकार की तरफ से लोगों को कोई सपोर्ट नहीं मिल रहा है।

यहां पर लोगों की जमीन से जुड़े मुद्दे हैं, वन अधिकार अधिनियम… pic.twitter.com/dJ0lJJKKeq

— Congress (@INCIndia) October 1, 2026

Addressing the situation in Balaghat, Gandhi alleged that several children had died due to malnutrition and other diseases and claimed that affected families had not received compensation in many cases.

He also raised concerns over the implementation of the Forest Rights Act, land-related matters and issues concerning MGNREGA, saying that people in the region should receive the benefits and rights guaranteed to them.

Gandhi called on the government to fulfil its responsibilities by providing schools, hospitals and basic facilities to the people of Balaghat. He also criticised the BJP-led Madhya Pradesh government over what he described as gaps in the delivery of welfare schemes.

According to Gandhi, some families are being excluded from one government scheme after receiving benefits under another, an issue he said needs to be addressed so eligible beneficiaries can access all schemes for which they qualify.

Focus on Adivasi Rights

Gandhi also emphasised his preference for referring to the communities as Adivasis rather than Vanvasis, while asserting that tribal communities are the original inhabitants of India and should receive their rightful place and access to facilities.

He said the situation in Balaghat reflected broader concerns across Madhya Pradesh and described it as a failure of the state government.

Gandhi further said that the Congress would support the people of the region if it comes to power, particularly on issues involving tribal rights, welfare, healthcare, education and access to government schemes.

The remarks come amid continuing political debate in Madhya Pradesh over tribal welfare, implementation of the Forest Rights Act, rural employment and delivery of social-security benefits.