Former Congress chief Sonia Gandhi has issued a stern warning to Congress leaders to avoid becoming “complacent” and “over-confident” as the party prepares for upcoming Assembly elections in four states, including Maharashtra and Haryana. In a recent Congress Parliamentary Party meeting, Gandhi emphasized the need for sustained effort and unity to maintain the momentum from the Lok Sabha elections.
Key Points from Sonia Gandhi’s Address
Congress Performance in Lok Sabha Elections
Sonia Gandhi highlighted the significant improvement in Congress’s performance during the Lok Sabha elections. The party increased its seat share from 52 in 2019 to 99, while the INDIA bloc secured 30 out of 40 seats in Maharashtra and 43 out of 80 seats in Uttar Pradesh. Despite the BJP’s dominance in these states, the Congress managed to secure a notable number of seats.
Call for Unity and Preparedness
Gandhi urged Congress leaders to harness the “momentum and goodwill” generated in the Lok Sabha elections. She stressed the importance of working “unitedly with a sense of purpose” and warned against complacency. The former Congress chief also called on first-time MPs to be well-prepared, attend Parliament sessions regularly, and take committee assignments seriously.
Criticism of the Modi Government
Sonia Gandhi did not hold back in her criticism of the Narendra Modi-led government. She pointed out the delays in conducting the national census, which was last due in 2021. This delay, according to Gandhi, prevents an accurate estimate of the population and denies benefits under the National Food Security Act of 2013.
She also criticized the Modi government’s handling of natural disasters and railway accidents, including the recent Wayanad landslides and the Mumbai-Howrah Mail derailment. Additionally, she expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s approach to education, accusing it of making the system “flawed” and “manipulated.”
Remarks on the BJP and NDA
Gandhi took a jab at the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) for their poor performance in Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra. She also criticized the RSS, labeling it as the “BJP’s political and ideological base.” According to Gandhi, the BJP’s continued policies of community division and fear-mongering are detrimental to national unity.
Praise for Rahul Gandhi and INDIA Bloc MPs
Despite her criticism, Gandhi praised Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and other INDIA bloc MPs for their effective representation during the debate on the Motion of Thanks to the President’s address. She acknowledged their efforts in addressing the pressing needs of farmers and youth.
Concerns Over Jammu and Kashmir
Sonia Gandhi expressed concerns about the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting the recent surge in terror attacks. She criticized the Modi government for its claims of improved security, calling the situation a “mockery” of their assurances.
Critique of PM Modi’s Handling of Manipur Crisis
Lastly, Gandhi criticized Prime Minister Modi for his lack of action in addressing the ethnic violence in Manipur, which has persisted since May 2023. She accused the Prime Minister of neglecting the state while traveling extensively abroad.
