Did Congress Fail to Eradicate Poverty in 75 Years?

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Did Congress Fail to Eradicate Poverty in 75 Years?

Synopsis

BJP MP Sambit Patra criticizes Congress for failing to eradicate poverty in India over 75 years, emphasizing a lack of substantial reforms despite decades of governance. He contrasts this with the Modi government's recent economic measures, including GST reforms that aim to benefit citizens.

Key Takeaways

  • Congress's historical failure to address poverty over 75 years.
  • Critique of Congress by BJP MP Sambit Patra.
  • Introduction of GST aimed at simplifying taxation.
  • Recent GST rate cuts to benefit consumers.
  • Assertion that Modi's governance is making reforms possible.

New Delhi, Sep 4 (NationPress) BJP MP Sambit Patra launched a scathing critique of Congress on Thursday, alleging that the party squandered 75 years of India's governance by offering mere slogans like “Garibi Hatao” while neglecting to implement substantial reforms.

During a press conference held at the BJP headquarters in New Delhi, Patra traced a line of criticism from former Prime Ministers Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, and Rajiv Gandhi to Sonia Gandhi, labeling the Congress record as “a narrative of lost chances and hollow commitments.”

Patra asserted that Congress “did nothing to eradicate poverty” despite decades of rule. “Starting with Prime Minister Nehru, followed by his daughter Indira Gandhi, her son Rajiv Gandhi, and later Sonia Gandhi as a shadow Prime Minister-- none of them delivered. Today, Rahul Gandhi has not received this opportunity from the populace,” he stated.

Targeting Congress, he remarked, “Whenever something positive occurs in the nation, Congress finds a reason to lament.”

The BJP leader contrasted this with the Modi government’s economic and tax reforms, especially regarding the Goods and Services Tax (GST). Patra emphasized that while Congress had the chance to implement a unified tax system, it failed to take action.

“They had the opportunity to introduce GST and streamline the tax framework before us, but all they provided was the slogan ‘Garibi Hatao’,” he remarked.

Highlighting the recent GST rate reductions announced on Thursday, Patra claimed these reforms would directly benefit families.

“Today’s newspaper headlines have brought joy to people’s faces. Almost all items will become cheaper starting September 22 -- the day Navratra begins,” he stated.

Essential food items such as rice, wheat, and dairy products, along with medicines, healthcare services, agricultural products, tractor parts, bicycles, toothpaste, and even electronics, would witness reduced rates, he added.

He described the cuts in health and insurance premiums as the “biggest leap,” calling it a reform designed to alleviate burdens for patients and families.

“This is not just a reform; it is a package of happiness. Modi hai toh mumkin hai,” Patra proclaimed.

Point of View

It is crucial to evaluate the claims made by Sambit Patra regarding Congress's governance. While historical critiques are valid, it's essential to consider the broader context of socio-economic challenges India has faced. The focus should remain on constructive dialogue and actionable solutions for poverty alleviation, rather than merely assigning blame.
NationPress
04/09/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main criticisms against Congress by Sambit Patra?
Sambit Patra criticizes Congress for failing to implement meaningful reforms to eradicate poverty despite ruling for 75 years, relying instead on slogans like 'Garibi Hatao'.
What reforms did the Modi government implement?
The Modi government introduced significant economic and tax reforms, particularly the Goods and Services Tax (GST), aimed at simplifying the tax structure and benefiting households.
How do the recent GST rate cuts affect consumers?
The recent GST rate cuts will lead to reduced prices for essential items such as food, healthcare services, and electronic goods, bringing relief to households.
What does Patra say about the history of Congress leadership?
Patra states that former Prime Ministers Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, and Sonia Gandhi all failed to deliver on the promise of poverty eradication.
What is the significance of the statement 'Modi hai toh mumkin hai'?
This phrase emphasizes the belief in the Modi government's capability to bring about positive changes and reforms in India.