Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition and a prominent Congress leader, addressed a public meeting in Puducherry on April 6, 2026, criticizing the Union government's control over the Union Territory. He stated that the administration does not align with the aspirations of the local population, emphasizing that the current governance is influenced by the central government. Gandhi expressed sadness that the local government does not reflect the will of the people, alleging that the Lt. Governor operates as if he were a monarch. He pledged that the Congress party would grant statehood to Puducherry if elected. Additionally, he promised to conduct local body elections within six months of assuming power, stressing the importance of strengthening local governance. Gandhi also accused the AINRC-BJP government of corruption, citing issues such as the manufacturing of fake medicines and the proliferation of liquor outlets near schools. He criticized attempts to privatize the Electricity Department, alleging that properties are being sold to Adani Enterprises. The Congress party is part of the INDIA bloc, contesting 16 seats in the upcoming elections, alongside the DMK and VCK.