Priyanka Gandhi Emphasizes Constitution as Protection and Assurance for Indians in Lok Sabha

New Delhi, Dec 13 (NationPress) Congress leader and Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Friday emphasized the significance of the Constitution as a protection and assurance for the country’s security and the freedom of expression.

During her inaugural address in the Lok Sabha's Constitution debate, she accused the central government of “undermining trust” in the Constitution over the last decade.

Priyanka commenced her speech by honoring the security personnel who sacrificed their lives protecting Parliament during the December 13 attack, expressing her heartfelt gratitude.

“Our civilization, which has thrived for thousands of years, is grounded in dialogue and communication,” she stated, referencing traditions from the Vedas, Upanishads, and various religions such as Islam, Jainism, and Buddhism.

“This legacy of dialogue has shaped our distinct freedom struggle, inherently democratic, involving peasants, laborers, lawyers, thinkers, and individuals from all backgrounds,” she added.

She acknowledged the contributions of leaders like B.R. Ambedkar, Maulana Azad, Rajaji, Jawaharlal Nehru, and others who devoted years to formulating the Constitution.

Describing the Constitution as a “beacon”, Priyanka noted it embodies justice, hope, and aspiration, empowering citizens to assert their rights and hold governments accountable.

“Our Constitution encompasses justice, hope, expression, and aspiration. It is a beacon reflecting the emotions of millions of Indians. This beacon has instilled hope that we can advocate for our rights and attain justice. It has empowered every citizen to voice their concerns, compelling the government to respond; the citizenry can influence any government,” she stated.

Reflecting on the Unnao rape case, Priyanka addressed the adversities faced by a victim whose family endured severe backlash for pursuing justice. “She was set on fire, her father’s crops were destroyed, and her family members were brutally assaulted,” she recounted, emphasizing the obstacles victims encounter in their quest for justice.

She also shared her recent visit to the household of Arun Valmiki, a sanitation worker accused of theft and allegedly beaten to death, leaving behind a young family. Furthermore, she referenced the violence in Sambhal and her conversations with victims' families, highlighting the necessity to uphold constitutional principles in such instances.

Priyanka criticized the ruling government for diminishing the Constitution over the past ten years. She asserted that the BJP now references the Constitution solely because the public is determined to safeguard it.

“Today, citizens demand a caste census to comprehend the reality of the nation and formulate appropriate policies. However, the government dodges its accountability, often referencing events from 1929 or questioning Nehru’s actions. What are you responsible for?” she inquired.

She also ridiculed leaders who have switched parties, sarcastically referring to them as “washed in the ruling party's laundry”.

Priyanka accused the government of misusing agencies like the ED and CBI to target opposition leaders, deeming this practice a manifestation of fear.

She criticized the BJP for shunning debates and scrutiny.

“We have long sought discussions, but they lack the courage to participate. They are engulfed in fear, to the extent that their media apparatus spreads falsehoods and fabricates accusations against opposition leaders,” she remarked.

She asserted, “The Constitution is not a document of the Sangh. Had it not been for the Lok Sabha election outcomes, the BJP might have already initiated amendments.”