Kharge Highlights Impact of Bharat Jodo Yatra and Nyay Yatra on Preserving Constitution at Congress Centenary

Belagavi, (Karnataka) Dec 27 (NationPress) In celebration of the centenary of Mahatma Gandhi's leadership as the Congress President in Belagavi, Karnataka, senior Congress figure Mallikarjun Kharge articulated on Thursday that the 'Bharat Jodo Yatra' and 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' have profoundly influenced the nation's political environment by countering the BJP-RSS's agenda to amend the Constitution.

Speaking at the Congress Working Committee during the Nav Satyagraha meeting, Kharge remarked: "When the Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) first entered Parliament, he showed reverence at the steps of the old Parliamentary building. Now, with the new Parliament building's inauguration, we are concerned that their (BJP's) real plan - to alter the Constitution - is in motion."

"This (BJP-RSS) has always been their hidden agenda. They have shown opposition to the Constitution, the national flag, and the legacies of Gandhi, Nehru, and Ambedkar. They have even burned effigies of these great figures," the Congress President stated.

He further observed, "Repeatedly, members of the ruling party have insulted the Preamble of the Constitution. They show a blatant disregard for constitutional principles and values. Institutions like the Election Commission of India are being manipulated, demonstrating a lack of respect for their autonomy. Our struggle to safeguard these institutions must persist."

Reflecting on the Congress's 140-year legacy, Kharge noted that despite numerous challenges, the party remains unwavering in its devotion to Mahatma Gandhi's principles and values.

"During the latest parliamentary session, we witnessed the Home Minister's extremely disrespectful comments regarding B.R. Ambedkar. We protested, voiced our dissent, and conducted demonstrations. These protests have now expanded nationwide," he emphasized.

"Nevertheless, neither the Prime Minister nor the government acknowledges their error. Instead of apologizing or demanding Amit Shah's resignation, they backed the objectionable remarks," Kharge highlighted.

The Prime Minister defended the Home Minister's comments, and a baseless case was lodged against Rahul Gandhi, he stated.

"This illustrates the ruling government's stance towards the Constitution and its architects. However, we will neither cower nor yield. We will champion the ideals of Nehru-Gandhi and uphold Ambedkar's dignity until our final breath," Kharge affirmed.

"Another alarming issue is the eroding trust in the electoral process due to suspicions about the Election Commission's neutrality. Recently, they revised electoral regulations to hide information mandated by the courts. What are they concealing? Why are they hesitant to share details that were previously public?" he questioned.

Concerns regarding voter deletions, hindrances to voting, unexpected increases in voter lists, and unusual spikes in voter turnout remain unaddressed, he remarked.

"Meanwhile, farmers nationwide are protesting for MSP guarantees and other demands due to the Central government's betrayal. Even hunger strikes are in progress, yet this government displays no compassion for our annadatas (food providers)," he criticized the BJP-led Central government.

"It is ironic that during former PM Rajiv Gandhi's administration, farmers could freely express their grievances at Boat Club. Today, they are prohibited from entering Delhi. Under former PM Manmohan Singh, we waived Rs 72,000 crore in farm loans, ensured maximum MSP, and passed the Land Acquisition Act," he highlighted.

"During the UPA's decade in power, we enacted rights-based legislation such as MGNREGA, RTI, the Right to Food, and the Right to Education. These achievements were made possible through the leadership and collaboration of Sonia Gandhi and Manmohan Singh," Kharge asserted.

"Today, the public's concerns go unheard. We must rise to support them and advocate for their issues with relentless effort and resolve," he stated.

"I remind you of the November 29 Working Committee meeting, where we resolved to confront the post-election losses in Haryana and Maharashtra with determination and action. In the recent parliamentary session, we successfully pressured the government and reenergized the Opposition. We also discussed organizational reforms and essential processes. I declare that 2025 will be the year of organizational empowerment. We will fill all vacant roles, fully implement the Udaipur Declaration, and equip our structure -- from AICC to booth level -- with the necessary resources to secure election victories," Kharge stated.

"Karnataka, my home state, marks the starting point of my extensive political journey. Today, I take pride in commemorating the significant responsibility Mahatma Gandhi accepted 100 years ago as Congress President," he remarked.

"As we relive this historic moment, Karnataka today adheres to Mahatma Gandhi's values, upholding the Constitution and democratic ideals inspired by visionaries like Mahatma Basaveshwara, Mahatma Phule, and B. R. Ambedkar," he added.

"The BJP accuses us (Congress) of disrespecting Ambedkar. However, it is well known that it was during Congress governance in 1967 that Ambedkar's statue was established in Parliament. Following the demands of thousands of activists like myself, during Indira Gandhi's tenure, Dr. Radhakrishnan inaugurated the first significant statue of Ambedkar in a central position within Parliament. I say this to the BJP and RSS: cease spreading falsehoods," Kharge concluded.