Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge voiced concern on Monday, suggesting that the 2024 Lok Sabha elections may be the last opportunity for citizens to safeguard democracy. He expressed apprehension that if Prime Minister Narendra Modi's party wins, it could lead to a shift towards dictatorship. Kharge urged the public to distance themselves from the BJP and its ideological counterpart, the RSS, likening their influence to poison.
Addressing a party rally, Kharge stated, "This will be the last opportunity for the people to save democracy in India. If Narendra Modi wins another election, there will be dictatorship in the country. The BJP will rule India like Putin in Russia." He launched a scathing attack on the BJP and RSS, accusing the present government of intimidating states and opposition leaders.
Kharge claimed, "Notices are being served to leaders, and ED & Income Tax have become weapons to grind political opponents." He emphasized the need for public awareness regarding the ideologies of the BJP and RSS, alleging that leaders are coerced into leaving their parties and alliances if they oppose these ideologies. Kharge highlighted Rahul Gandhi's resilience against such pressures, stating, "However, Rahul Gandhi did not come under their pressure and continues to fight against forces that are out to divide the nation."
Regarding the JD(U) of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar returning to the NDA, Kharge downplayed its impact on the polls, asserting, "One person quitting Mahagathbandhan will not weaken us. We will defeat the BJP."
Labelling Prime Minister Modi as a habitual liar, Kharge accused him of misleading the public with promises of creating 2 crore jobs annually and depositing Rs 15 lakh in every Indian’s bank account. He emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant and cautioned against the potential consequences of another Modi victory in the upcoming elections.
In addition, Kharge criticized the alliance between Odisha’s ruling BJD and the BJP, alleging that the two parties are looting the state and oppressing its poor residents. He claimed that while the BJP and BJD align with the wealthy, the Congress consistently supports the underprivileged. Kharge pointed to past contributions of the Congress to Odisha, such as Paradip Port, Rourkela Steel Plant, Chilka Naval Academy, and various educational institutions.
Kharge questioned the policies of the Modi-Naveen Patnaik alliance in Odisha, highlighting the natural wealth being allegedly looted under their watch. He also criticized the recruitment of leaders and officials from outside the state and urged the people to unite and fight for their rights. Kharge concluded by pointing out the large number of vacant government positions across the country and accused Modi of not filling them to prevent SC-ST, OBC individuals from gaining employment opportunities.
(With Agency Inputs)
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