New Delhi (Agency): On India’s 76th Independence Day, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge delivered a message that was more than just celebratory greetings. He voiced strong concerns about the treatment of the Opposition by the BJP-led government.
Kharge stated, “Today, democracy, constitution and institutions, all are in great danger.” He expressed that there are new methods being employed to “suppress the voice of the Opposition.” He pointed out the increasing use of government agencies like the Central Bureau of Investigation, Enforcement Directorate, and the Income Tax department against opposition figures.
Further shedding light on the situation, Kharge brought up an incident involving the suspension of Opposition Members of Parliament (MPs). This group included Rahul Gandhi, a prominent leader from Congress. Fortunately for Gandhi, his suspension was later lifted following a judgement from the Supreme Court. Highlighting these tactics, Kharge remarked, “Efforts are being made to suppress the voice of Opposition MPs in the Parliament by suspending them.”
He also noted other ways Opposition voices were silenced in the Parliament. He mentioned instances where “someone’s mic is turning off or someone’s words are getting expunged.” Kharge made these observations in a video message, choosing to skip the traditional Independence Day celebrations held at the historic Red Fort in Delhi.
Moreover, Kharge did not only focus on the challenges faced by the Opposition. He took the opportunity to honor and highlight the contributions of past leaders. Paying tribute to former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, Kharge said, “These days some people express that India’s progress has happened only in the last few years (of the BJP government).” He rejected this notion, emphasizing that many of India’s premier institutions, including AIIMS, IIT, and IIM, were established under Nehru’s leadership.
Closing his message, Kharge underscored the importance of democracy and the constitution, considering them as the “soul of our country.” He stated, “On this occasion of Independence Day, we take a pledge that we will uphold the freedom of democracy and constitution for the unity and integrity of the country, for love and brotherhood, for harmony.”
The words of Congress Chief Kharge come at a crucial time for India. While the nation celebrates its hard-won freedom, there are concerns from certain sections about the state of democracy in the country. Whether one agrees with Kharge’s views or not, it’s evident that robust dialogue and discussion are essential for a thriving democracy.