Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a campaign rally in Belagavi on Sunday, April 28, where he accused Rahul Gandhi of insulting the great kings and queens of India. Referring to Rahul Gandhi’s statement about the brutality of past Rajas and Maharajas, PM Modi mentioned Shivaji Maharaj and Kittur Chennamma as examples of revered historical figures who were allegedly insulted. He questioned Rahul Gandhi’s silence on the atrocities committed by Nawabs, Nizams, Sultans, and Badshahs. PM Modi also emphasized the benevolent contributions made by kings and queens in promoting good governance and patriotism. He mentioned the support of the King of Banaras in building Banaras Hindu University and the reconstruction of temples by Queen Ahalyabai Holkar. PM Modi criticized the Congress Prince for not acknowledging the historical significance of the benevolent kings and queens and accused him of playing appeasement politics. He also mentioned the Congress’ alignment with parties that praise Aurangzeb and their failure to criticize Sultans who engaged in temple destruction and cow slaughter. PM Modi claimed that these actions were a result of Congress’ vote bank politics. In contrast, he mentioned the NDA government’s initiatives in promoting women’s participation in the army, allowing girl students in Sainik schools, and increasing the number of women in central police forces. The campaign rally was held in support of BJP candidates Jagadish Shettar and Anna Saheb Jolle, and was attended by various party leaders and officials.