Congress leader and Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra emphasized the importance of the Constitution as a “shield and guarantee” for India’s security and freedom of speech in her maiden speech during the Constitution debate in the Lok Sabha on Friday.
Accuses Government of Undermining the Constitution
In her speech, Priyanka accused the central government of eroding trust in the Constitution over the past decade. She stressed that the Constitution is the foundation for justice, equality, and citizen empowerment. She also expressed gratitude to the security personnel who lost their lives defending Parliament during the December 13 attack.
“Our civilization, which has thrived for thousands of years, is rooted in dialogue and communication,” Priyanka said, citing the Vedas, Upanishads, and teachings from Islam, Jainism, and Buddhism. She explained that this tradition of dialogue was central to India’s freedom struggle, which was democratic at its core and included people from all walks of life.
The Constitution as a ‘Lighthouse’ of Hope
Priyanka praised the Constitution as a “lighthouse” of justice, hope, and aspiration. “The Constitution gives us hope to fight for our rights and get justice. It empowers every citizen to demand accountability from the government,” she said. Priyanka highlighted how the Constitution allows citizens to challenge governments, making it a powerful tool for democracy.
She acknowledged the contributions of leaders like B.R. Ambedkar, Maulana Azad, Rajaji, and Jawaharlal Nehru, who dedicated their lives to drafting the Constitution, which continues to guide the country’s democratic values.
Personal Accounts Highlighting Constitutional Values
Priyanka recalled the Unnao rape case and the challenges faced by the victim’s family in seeking justice. “The victim was burned alive, her father’s crops were destroyed, and her family was brutally beaten,” she said, emphasizing the difficulties victims endure when fighting for justice.
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She also spoke about her recent visit to the family of Arun Valmiki, a sanitation worker allegedly beaten to death after being accused of theft. “His young family is left behind in sorrow,” Priyanka added. She drew attention to similar incidents, such as the Sambhal violence, underlining the importance of upholding constitutional values in all cases of injustice.
Government’s Failure to Address the Nation’s Reality
Priyanka accused the ruling government of undermining the Constitution. She argued that the BJP now speaks of the Constitution only because the public has shown determination to protect it. She questioned the government’s reluctance to conduct a caste census, despite growing public demand, and criticized their frequent focus on historical events like those from 1929.
“What is your responsibility? Why do you evade it?” she asked, referring to the BJP’s failure to address important issues like caste-based data collection. She also mocked leaders who switch parties, sarcastically suggesting they had been “washed in the ruling party’s washing machine.”
Misuse of Agencies and Avoidance of Debate
Priyanka accused the government of using agencies like the ED and CBI to target opposition leaders, calling it a reflection of the government’s fear. She criticized the BJP for avoiding debates and discussions in Parliament, claiming that they lacked the courage to engage with opposition members.
“They live in fear. Their media machine spreads lies and forges cases against opposition leaders,” she added. She also asserted that the Constitution was not a document of the Sangh, implying that the BJP would alter it if not for the results of the Lok Sabha elections.
In her strong speech, Priyanka made it clear that the Constitution is the pillar of India’s democracy and should not be undermined.
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