Fri Jul 18 08:25:37 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the provided text followed by a news article based on it:

**Summary:**

The provided text is from *The Hindu* newspaper, dated July 18, 2025. It highlights a speech given by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi at a memorial meeting for former Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy. Gandhi criticized the RSS (Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh) and CPI(M) (Communist Party of India – Marxist), accusing them of lacking empathy for the people. He emphasized the importance of feeling for, connecting with, and listening to the public for effective leadership.

**News Article:**

**Gandhi Accuses RSS and CPI(M) of Lacking Empathy**

*Kottayam, Kerala* – In a speech delivered at a memorial meeting for the late former Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy on Friday, July 18, 2025, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi launched a scathing critique of the RSS and CPI(M), accusing both organizations of a fundamental lack of empathy for the Indian people.

“I fight them in the realm of ideas and in the realm of speech,” Gandhi stated, “But, my biggest complaint is that they do not have feelings for the people.”

Gandhi, who serves as the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, argued that true leadership stems from a deep connection with the public. He emphasized the necessity of understanding the thoughts and feelings of ordinary citizens, stressing the importance of listening and engaging with them on a personal level. “If you are in politics, feel what people are thinking, listen to them, and touch them,” he urged.

He lamented what he perceives as a growing disconnect between political leaders and the populace. “The real tragedy in Indian politics today is that very few people are actually feeling what others are feeling,” Gandhi asserted.

The speech was delivered at Puthuppally in Kottayam district, marking the second death anniversary of Oommen Chandy, a prominent figure in Kerala politics.

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