Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, took aim at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP during his speech in Rajya Sabha on the debate surrounding President Droupadi Murmu’s address.
Kharge voiced concerns over various issues, including the ongoing controversy over the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) and the arrests of opposition leaders.
Key Points of Kharge’s Speech:
- PM Modi’s Conduct:
- Kharge accused PM Modi of embarrassing India, referring to past statements made by BJP leaders. He remarked that the BJP’s arrogance was shattered following the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
- NEET Controversy:
- Highlighting the impact of the NEET paper leak, Kharge criticized the government’s handling of the situation. Initially, the government denied the leak, only to later acknowledge irregularities. Kharge urged the government to consider scrapping the Agnipath scheme, which has faced widespread criticism.
- Arrests of Opposition Leaders:
- Kharge condemned the arrests of opposition leaders and alleged misuse of central agencies like the Directorate of Enforcement and the Central Bureau of Investigation to silence dissent. He argued that the BJP was using these tactics to undermine democracy.
- Redistribution of Wealth and Social Issues:
- Kharge also took issue with PM Modi’s comments during election rallies, which included controversial remarks on redistribution of wealth, Mangalsutra, reservation, and ‘Mujra’.
- Statue Relocation in Parliament House:
- The Congress chief questioned the relocation of national leaders’ statues in the Parliament House complex, criticizing the lack of consultation and accusing the government of acting in an authoritarian manner.
- Defense of Democracy:
- Kharge praised the public’s support for the opposition’s efforts to protect the Constitution. He stated that the elections demonstrated that the Constitution and the will of the people ultimately prevail over any attempts to undermine them.
Responses from Rajya Sabha and Government Officials:
- Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankar defended the relocation of statues, emphasizing that it was done methodically and urging members to visit the new locations.
- Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister clarified that the statues were relocated with respect and proper consideration.