The newly-appointed leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha and Congress leader, Rahul Gandhi, set a critical tone for the INDIA bloc on Monday with his first speech in the 18th Lok Sabha. Addressing the alleged environment of fear perpetuated by the Narendra Modi government over his last two terms, Gandhi anchored his remarks around the BJP’s deflection from pertinent issues like inflation, the job crisis, and growing inequality by inducing anxiety among people on emotive issues of faith. As the leader of the opposition, Rahul Gandhi’s speech sets the stage for a robust and dynamic debate on the future direction of the country, urging all political actors to work together for a more just and equitable India.
Criticisms of the BJP’s Governance
Responding to the Motion of Thanks to the President’s Address, Rahul Gandhi accused the Modi government of overseeing a “systematic attack on the constitution, on the idea of India, and on anybody who opposed” the BJP’s patronage of “hate, untruth, and violence.” His intervention unfolded amidst dramatic scenes in the Lok Sabha, with BJP MPs hooting and chanting slogans as he rose to speak. Gandhi countered with “Jai Samvidhan,” drawing applause from his party MPs.
Allegations of Spreading Fear and Misinterpreting Faith
Rahul Gandhi’s speech highlighted the BJP’s alleged use of fear and violence, contrasting this with the non-violent teachings of Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism, and Christianity. He accused BJP leaders of misinterpreting Hinduism’s core messages, fostering hate, untruth, and violence. Gandhi used placards of different faiths to underscore his point and criticised the Modi government’s close ties with industrial groups like Adani and Ambani.
The Prime Minister and Home Minister’s Reactions
Prime Minister Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah responded to Gandhi’s remarks. Modi emphasised the seriousness of Gandhi’s accusations, while Shah demanded an apology, asserting that those who imposed the Emergency and led the 1984 anti-Sikh riots have no right to accuse others of spreading fear. However, Modi’s reaction proved Rahul Gandhi’s point that he or his party is not the complete representation of the Hindu community, which the latter kept reiterating in his speech. Ironically, Modi tried to play the Hindu card, which did not go in the right direction, and when his turn came, all he had was illogical discourse, which falls below the decorum of any PM. The reactions of people on social media and other platforms prove the same, while the BJP camp seemed to be celebrating for no reason.
Highlighting Local and National Issues
Rahul Gandhi cited the BJP’s electoral defeat in Ayodhya as a response to the fear spread by the party. He mentioned the unpaid compensation to Ayodhya residents displaced by the new airport and the exclusion of locals from the Ram Mandir consecration ceremony. He argued that fear had permeated even Modi’s aides and ministers, citing their altered behaviour in Modi’s presence.
Addressing Economic and Social Concerns
Gandhi touched upon various issues, including the plight of women facing domestic abuse due to economic hardships, the controversial Agnipath scheme for armed forces recruitment, and the alleged neglect of the Manipur conflict by the Centre. He criticized economic policies like demonetisation and the GST, arguing they hurt small and medium industries, leading to job losses and economic distress.
Institutional Failures and Corruption
He highlighted institutional failures, such as frequent paper leaks, and accused the BJP-RSS of spreading fear and hate among minorities, farmers, Dalits, and backward classes. Gandhi also hinted at the alleged partisanship of the Lok Sabha Speaker, urging him to uphold the democratic values of the House.
A Call for Unity and Non-Violence
Rahul Gandhi concluded by urging the government to collaborate without aggression or nastiness towards the opposition. “Work without violence, work without hatred,” he said, emphasising the need for unity and peaceful governance.
The final thought
Rahul Gandhi’s speech in the Lok Sabha was a powerful critique of the Modi government’s tenure, highlighting what he sees as the ruling party’s failure to address core issues affecting the nation. By calling out the BJP for promoting fear and division, Rahul Gandhi positioned himself as a champion for the values of non-violence, constitutional integrity, and inclusive development. His call for unity and non-violence serves as a reminder of the foundational principles of Indian democracy, urging the current government to prioritise the well-being and harmony of its people above partisan politics.
Mohd Ziyauallah Khan is a freelance content writer based in Nagpur. He is also an activist and social entrepreneur, co-founder of the group TruthScape, a team of digital activists fighting disinformation on social media.
