SGCCI Accused of Giving BJP Campaign Platform to Union Minister Mandaviya

Surat | Gujarat — A storm of criticism has erupted against the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry after an industry interaction featuring Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya was accused of turning into a political campaign platform in Surat.

The event, originally described as a voter awareness and industry discussion program, has drawn backlash from sections of the business community who claim the chamber compromised its neutrality by allowing a long political speech with little room for real industry concerns.

48-Minute Speech, Zero Answers

According to critics, Mandaviya delivered a 48-minute address heavily focused on praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi, mentioning him repeatedly while presenting the central government’s achievements.

Industrialists say the minister listened to only ten questions before leaving the venue without offering concrete solutions.

“This was projected as an interaction with industry, but it felt like a political rally,” said one attendee, requesting anonymity. “We expected answers on pressing issues, but none came.”

Key Industry Issues Remain Unaddressed

Observers pointed out that several critical concerns facing Surat’s industrial sector were either avoided or barely discussed. These included worker migration, labour shortages, rising yarn prices and urgent local infrastructure challenges.

Industrialist Pramod Chaudhary focused on housing, hospitals and schools for workers in industrial zones but stopped short of raising concerns about labour migration. Former chamber president Ashish Gujarati suggested skill certification for textile workers, a proposal the minister acknowledged positively.

However, critics argue that beyond these limited discussions, the session failed to address broader challenges affecting businesses in the region.

“No discussion happened on major state or municipal development issues,” an industry representative said. “The focus remained almost entirely on central government achievements.”

Fear and Silence Alleged

Some attendees alleged that the presence of local political leaders created an atmosphere where industrialists hesitated to raise uncomfortable questions.

“The chamber should be a fearless platform for industry voices,” said a senior businessman. “Instead, many felt uncomfortable speaking openly.”

The minister’s remark that Dubai had “fallen behind by 10 years” due to Middle East conflict also drew mixed reactions. While some attendees agreed, others privately questioned the comparison and the absence of realistic strategies to position Surat as a global manufacturing hub.

Questions Over Institutional Neutrality

The controversy has reignited debate about the role of trade bodies in maintaining political neutrality. Critics say industry associations must remain independent and ensure their platforms are not used for political messaging.

“This is not about any one party,” an attendee said. “It is about protecting the credibility of industry institutions.”