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Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, delivered a scathing critique of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) during a parliamentary debate on the Constitution. His central accusation was that the BJP, through its actions and the fervent devotion it cultivates towards Modi, is pushing the country towards a dictatorship. Kharge warned that while religious devotion might have spiritual benefits, in politics, such uncritical allegiance is a dangerous path leading to the erosion of democratic principles and the rise of authoritarian rule. He directly challenged Modi, asserting that the Prime Minister is prepared to become a dictator, and implored his fellow parliamentarians to uphold the Constitution and prevent the country from succumbing to such a fate. This strong condemnation underscores the deepening political divide in India and the serious accusations being leveled against the ruling party.
A significant portion of Kharge's speech focused on the BJP's alleged undermining of the Indian Constitution and its historical legacy. He accused the party of disrespecting the contributions of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the chief architect of the Constitution, citing historical records indicating opposition from the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the BJP's ideological parent, during the Constitution's drafting. Furthermore, Kharge condemned the BJP's opposition to a caste census, arguing it reveals a disregard for the principles of social justice enshrined in the Constitution. He highlighted the BJP's alleged attempts to dismantle the reservation system, a crucial component of India's affirmative action policies designed to address historical social inequalities. This aspect of Kharge's critique points to a fundamental disagreement over the interpretation and implementation of the Constitution's core values.
Kharge's attack extended beyond the Constitution to encompass a broader critique of the Modi government's policies and actions. He accused Modi of misleading the public, particularly regarding unfulfilled promises such as the deposit of Rs 15 lakh into every citizen's bank account, a prominent campaign promise. He further criticized the BJP's handling of the ongoing crisis in Manipur, highlighting Rahul Gandhi's visit to the state and contrasting it with Modi's perceived inaction. Kharge also accused the BJP of distorting the legacies of national leaders such as Jawaharlal Nehru, Mahatma Gandhi, and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, aiming to revise the historical narrative to suit their political agenda. He countered claims by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman regarding Congress' use of constitutional amendments, arguing that the Prime Minister was dwelling on the past instead of acknowledging present-day achievements that strengthen democracy. This multifaceted attack paints a picture of a government perceived as disingenuous, incompetent, and politically motivated.
Kharge's speech also touched upon the BJP's treatment of opposition leaders, alleging that Home Minister Amit Shah has transformed the party into a 'washing machine' that cleanses politicians with questionable pasts. This accusation further emphasizes the concerns regarding the erosion of ethical standards and accountability within the ruling party. In contrast, Kharge defended the Congress' legacy, emphasizing the positive impact of policies like MGNREGA, bank nationalization, land reforms, and the Food Security Act, policies credited with uplifting millions of people from poverty. He questioned the BJP's claims of progress and emphasized the lasting contribution of Congress-era policies in ensuring social and economic justice. The speech thus presents a stark contrast between the two major political forces in India, framing the debate not just around specific policies but also around deeply held beliefs about India's past, present, and future.
The overall impact of Kharge's speech is a forceful condemnation of the BJP's governance, its alleged disregard for constitutional values, and its handling of pressing social and political issues. The accusations leveled against Modi and the BJP are significant and far-reaching, directly challenging the legitimacy of the ruling party's actions and potentially influencing the upcoming elections. The debate highlights the intense polarization of Indian politics and the deeply held convictions on either side, shaping the ongoing narrative about India's political landscape. Kharge's strong words are likely to intensify the political discourse and further solidify the positions taken by both the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress.
Source: 'He's ready to become a dictator': Mallikarjun Kharge's big charge against PM Modi