Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge criticized the BJP for promoting divisive politics during the Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi’s manifesto release in Mumbai. He specifically called out Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s “Batenge to Katenge” remarks, stating that the party has already divided society by adopting the Manusmriti. Kharge also highlighted the contrasting slogans of Adityanath and Prime Minister Modi, emphasizing the importance of unity for the country’s safety and progress.
Moreover, Kharge took a dig at Modi and Fadnavis for questioning the red-colored Constitution copy shown by Rahul Gandhi at a meeting, linking it to urban Naxals. In response, he pointed out a similar instance where Modi presented a red-colored Constitution copy to Ramnath Kovind in 2017, questioning if that too had Naxal connections. Kharge further expressed concerns about the current government’s approach towards constitutional institutions and democracy, drawing a comparison with former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee who, according to him, upheld democratic values.
During a ‘Save Constitution, Save Democracy’ conclave at Y B Chavan Centre, Kharge warned about the dangers of failing to maintain unity in the country. He specifically called out the RSS, Narendra Modi, and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for posing a threat to democracy and the constitution. Kharge highlighted Vajpayee’s role in promoting democracy, contrasting it with the current administration’s actions, which he believes are undermining the constitutional framework.
The upcoming elections in Maharashtra hold significant importance for the state’s future, according to Kharge. He believes that the results will not only impact Maharashtra but also send a message to defectors across India about the consequences of changing and splitting political parties. Kharge’s criticisms of the BJP’s divisive politics and concerns about the state of democracy in the country reflect the ongoing political tensions and debates surrounding the upcoming elections.
In conclusion, Kharge’s statements shed light on the ideological differences between the Congress and the BJP, highlighting the contrasting visions for the country’s future. His emphasis on unity, democracy, and constitutional values resonates with the larger political discourse in India, where questions of identity, governance, and ideology continue to shape public debates and electoral outcomes.
