Congress Intensifies Fight for Constitution Protection: Kharge Slams BJP in Odisha

Bhubaneswar, Odisha – In a significant political maneuver aimed at galvanizing public sentiment, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge launched a blistering attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) during the ‘Samvidhan Bachao Samavesh’ (Save Constitution Rally) in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The rally, a powerful demonstration of the Congress party’s commitment to Constitution Protection, saw Kharge accusing the ruling BJP of systematically attempting to dismantle the very fabric of India’s foundational document. His impassioned address resonated with supporters, highlighting what the Congress perceives as an alarming assault on democratic values and social justice.

Accusations of Eroding Constitutional Principles for Constitution Protection

Addressing a large gathering, Kharge unequivocally stated that the BJP-led central government is actively working to remove the words “secularism” and “socialism” from the Constitution. “The BJP government at the Centre is attempting to omit secularism and socialism from our Constitution,” Kharge asserted, underscoring the Congress’s primary concern regarding Constitution Protection. This allegation forms the cornerstone of the ‘Samvidhan Bachao’ campaign, framing the current political discourse as a battle for the soul of the nation. The Congress believes that these attempts threaten the inclusive and egalitarian vision enshrined by the framers of the Constitution.

Kharge further alleged that under BJP rule, Dalits, tribals, and youths are facing increased marginalization and attacks. He claimed that BJP supporters were directly targeting these vulnerable communities in Odisha, warning that “The BJP will wipe out Dalits, tribals and youths unless they learn to fight for their rights.” This narrative aims to position the Congress as the protector of the disadvantaged, championing their rights and advocating for robust Constitution Protection. The Congress leader urged these groups to recognize the alleged existential threat posed by the current administration and to rise in defense of their constitutional guarantees.

Beyond social issues, Kharge also criticized the BJP’s economic policies, particularly focusing on the privatization of public sector undertakings (PSUs). He contrasted the Congress’s legacy of establishing 160 PSUs with the BJP’s alleged policy of privatizing 23 of them, framing it as a betrayal of public assets and a detriment to national interests. This economic critique intertwines with the broader theme of Constitution Protection, as the Congress argues that such privatization undermines the socialist principles envisioned in the Constitution for economic equity and welfare.

Rahul Gandhi Joins the Call for Constitution Protection

The rally also saw the prominent presence of former Congress President Rahul Gandhi, who echoed Kharge’s concerns and intensified the attack on the BJP. Gandhi raised serious allegations regarding electoral manipulation, particularly in Bihar, claiming that the BJP, in collusion with the Election Commission, was attempting to “steal” elections. “The BJP is attempting to repeat in Bihar what it did in Maharashtra — steal election through the backdoor,” Gandhi stated, emphasizing the critical need for electoral integrity as a component of Constitution Protection. He further alleged that the Election Commission was acting more like a “wing of the BJP” than an independent constitutional body.

Gandhi extended his critique to the BJP government in Odisha, accusing it of exploiting the state’s resources for the benefit of a few large corporations, including the Adani Group. He alleged that “The BJP government in Odisha is working overtime to steal from the poor and help big companies,” highlighting a purported nexus between the ruling party and corporate interests. This accusation links economic exploitation with a broader disregard for the welfare of the common people, reinforcing the Congress’s stance on comprehensive Constitution Protection. He called upon the people of Odisha to join the Congress in fighting against such alleged injustices, asserting that the land belongs to the poor and farmers, not to billionaires.

The ‘Samvidhan Bachao’ Movement: A Crucial Juncture for Constitution Protection

The ‘Samvidhan Bachao Samavesh’ in Bhubaneswar is part of a larger nationwide campaign by the Congress to highlight what it describes as the BJP’s systematic assault on the Constitution. The Congress leaders emphasized that the Constitution is not merely a legal document but the soul of the nation, guaranteeing rights and freedoms to every citizen. The campaign seeks to mobilize citizens across various sections of society – Dalits, tribals, farmers, and youths – to stand united in safeguarding their constitutional rights and the democratic framework.

The timing of this rally is crucial, coming amidst heightened political activity and ahead of various state elections. By framing their protests around Constitution Protection, the Congress aims to tap into a deeper sense of national identity and public responsibility, transcending traditional political divides. The party believes that the alleged attempts to dilute the Constitution’s core tenets pose a threat to the country’s pluralistic and democratic character.

In conclusion, the ‘Samvidhan Bachao’ rally in Odisha served as a potent platform for the Congress leadership to articulate their concerns over the BJP’s policies and their perceived impact on the Indian Constitution. With fiery rhetoric and strong accusations, Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi sought to rally support for their cause, positioning the Congress as the vigilant guardian of Constitution Protection. The ongoing political discourse is set to intensify as the debate over constitutional values continues to shape the national agenda.