Is Indira Gandhi's Legacy Being Misused for Political Gains?

Synopsis
BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi criticizes Congress for exploiting Indira Gandhi's legacy, particularly in light of recent India-Pakistan developments. He highlights the need to acknowledge the darker aspects of her tenure while emphasizing India's stance against terrorism.
Key Takeaways
- Naqvi's critique of Congress highlights the misuse of Indira Gandhi's legacy.
- The Emergency period remains a controversial topic in Indian history.
- India's commitment to combating terrorism is unwavering.
- Political discourse should focus on unity rather than historical exploitation.
- Jammu and Kashmir's status is a matter of national consensus.
New Delhi, May 12 (NationPress) BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi delivered a pointed critique of the Congress Party, accusing it of leveraging the legacy of late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi for its own political benefit, especially following the recent developments between India and Pakistan.
“How long will you continue to operate your political enterprise under the guise of Indira Gandhi’s legacy?” Naqvi questioned.
“The nation holds Indira ji in high regard, but attempting to politicize her legacy by claiming ‘she would have acted differently’ and drawing comparisons to the actions of PM Modi is not only unjust, but it will also invite difficult questions,” he stated.
Naqvi reminded the Congress of the troubling aspects of Indira Gandhi’s time in office. “If you wish to revisit that chapter, let us not forget the Emergency, the assaults on democracy, the multitude imprisoned, and the lives lost during that period. Therefore, cease turning Indira ji’s legacy into a political commodity, as it serves no beneficial purpose.”
In response to US President Donald Trump’s unexpected announcement regarding an India-Pakistan ceasefire, Congress leaders quickly invoked Indira Gandhi’s name, emphasizing her commitment to safeguarding India’s interests and resisting external pressures to cease military actions.
Regarding the recent DGMO (Director General of Military Operations) press conference, Naqvi asserted that India has communicated a resounding message. “Although our land may be the birthplace of Buddha, if provoked by war, we will retaliate fiercely. Pakistan is carving its own downfall through terrorism.”
He commended the Indian armed forces and PM Modi’s guidance: “If terrorists fire upon us, they shall meet with missiles. PM Modi has sent a clear message: we have zero tolerance for terrorism. The outcomes are evident, terrorists are unsettled, and their masterminds are in disarray.”
Naqvi also criticized Congress for questioning the government and calling for a special session of Parliament to deliberate on the Pahalgam terror attack, ‘Operation Sindoor,’ and the subsequent ceasefire agreement with Pakistan.
“They seek a special parliamentary session. Next, they will request evidence, inquiring where the terrorists were neutralized, why, and how,” he expressed.
“Soon enough, it appears Pakistan will also demand proof, and they will mirror each other. Let us discontinue this duet of inquiries and evidence demands,” he asserted.
Reinforcing the government’s unwavering stance, he stated, “Jammu and Kashmir are integral parts of India, as is Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir. This is a unanimous resolution passed by our Parliament. There is no ambiguity or contradiction in that.”
“The ceasefire does not signify an end to our battle against terrorism. That campaign will persist until the last terrorist is eradicated. Overcoming the brutality of terrorists is our national and moral obligation,” he concluded.