The Aryavarth Express
Agency(New Delhi): Congress leader Rahul Gandhi recalled the BJP’s historical electoral loss under the ‘India Shining’ campaign during the unveiling of his party’s manifesto for the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections. This reference was made to emphasize the unpredictability of electoral outcomes and the potential vulnerability of the BJP despite its current claims of dominance.
Gandhi’s remarks followed the release of the Congress manifesto, which includes commitments to defend democratic principles and constitutional values against what he describes as the authoritarian tendencies of the Narendra Modi-led NDA government. He criticized the Modi administration for allegedly monopolizing financial and institutional power through entities like the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
Detailing the concerns surrounding electoral bonds, Gandhi accused the BJP of opaque financial practices linked to electoral funding, suggesting these have contributed to a climate of fear and manipulation in Indian politics.
The Congress manifesto also addresses the Anti-Defection Law, with the party expressing intentions to strictly enforce provisions that prevent political defections. Furthermore, the manifesto cautiously approaches the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), indicating a review rather than an outright repeal, reflecting a deliberate consideration of the law’s implications.
P Chidambaram, head of the manifesto committee, highlighted the party’s stance on lawmakers defecting from their parties, stating that such actions would lead to disqualification.
In his address, Gandhi framed the upcoming election as a crucial battle between the forces undermining democracy and those striving to preserve it, represented by the BJP and the INDIA alliance, respectively. He positioned the Congress as a champion of inclusivity and fairness in governance, aiming to restore balance and integrity to the nation’s democratic institutions.