As Delhi prepares for its Assembly elections on February 5, the political battle reflected in the Parliament on Monday, with sharp speeches from Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, and counterattacks from BJP members.
Rahul Gandhi Criticizes Modi Government’s Economic Policies
Rahul Gandhi led the opposition charge in the Lok Sabha by questioning the ‘Make in India’ initiative’s failure and its impact on national security. He emphasized that production is key to job creation and national security, stating that the share of manufacturing in India’s GDP had dropped from 15.3% in 2014 to 12.6%, the lowest in 60 years.
He further accused the Modi government of ignoring opportunities in the energy and mobility revolutions. Rahul noted that China was 10 years ahead in areas like batteries, robotics, and optics, and that India must focus on production to avoid falling into the trap of increased inequality and social tensions due to unemployment. He also pushed for a caste census, emphasizing the need for AI to ensure fair opportunities for Dalits, Adivasis, OBCs, and minorities.
In his address, Gandhi critiqued the ‘Amrit Kaal’ narrative and questioned whether it was a period of growth or despair, pointing to the suicide of over 100,000 farmers and the declining value of the Indian rupee.
BJP Defends Modi Government’s Achievements
In contrast, BJP members rallied behind Prime Minister Narendra Modi, citing India’s rise as the fifth-largest economy under his leadership. Ravi Shankar Prasad recalled the legacy of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, asserting that while Patel unified India’s princely states, Nehru failed to handle Kashmir, leading to ongoing tensions that PM Modi is now addressing through elections in Jammu and Kashmir.
Prasad also lauded the government’s economic achievements, pointing to the country’s growth from a weak economy to the fifth-largest globally.
Trinamool Congress Critiques Modi Government’s Record on Women’s Representation
Trinamool Congress leader Derek O’Brien took a jab at the NDA coalition in the Rajya Sabha, emphasizing the underrepresentation of women in the BJP. He noted that AITC had 39% women MPs while the BJP had only 13%, drawing attention to Bengal’s 35% ministerial positions held by women.
O’Brien also used popular Hindi films as metaphors to criticize the government’s handling of various national issues, including social justice and the economy.
Kharge and Owaisi Raise Issues with the Government
In his Rajya Sabha speech, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge questioned the Modi government’s handling of GDP growth, pointing out a significant drop from 7.8% during the UPA government to 5.8% now. He slammed the government for not addressing the farmer crisis adequately and pointed to 1 lakh farmer suicides over the past decade.
Kharge also criticized the government’s economic policies, questioning the efficacy of the ‘Amrit Kaal’ narrative in light of growing unemployment and inequality.
AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi raised concerns about the Waqf Bill, warning that the proposed amendments would lead to social instability and violate constitutional rights. He declared his opposition to any move that would infringe upon Muslim religious properties, emphasizing his stance as a proud Indian Muslim committed to defending Waqf properties.
Key Takeaways from the Debate
- Rahul Gandhi focused on job creation, economic revival, and national security linked to manufacturing and AI.
- The BJP defended its economic progress and national integration efforts, contrasting it with Congress’ alleged failures.
- Kharge and Gandhi highlighted the declining economy and farmer distress, calling for structural changes in the government’s approach.
- Owaisi raised the Waqf Bill issue, demanding greater transparency and protections for Muslim properties.
The debate continues, with discussions expected to shape the political landscape leading into the Delhi assembly elections.