From Dynastic Politics to Economic Aspirations: Modi’s Address Sparks Controversy
In a recent address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized the Congress party for favouring dynastic politics. He highlighted that while his party has consistently opposed this approach, Congress seems to embrace “parivarvaad” or family-centric politics. The prominence of hereditary politics, according to Modi, has resulted in the marginalization of prominent people such as B.R. Ambedkar, Morarji Desai, Babu Jagjivan Ram, and Charan Singh.
Responding to a recent statement by Rahul Gandhi, Modi agreed with the comparison that Lanka was set ablaze not by Hanuman, but by arrogance. He emphasized that the people of India have shown their disagreement with this arrogance by reducing Congress’s seat count significantly, from 400 seats to 40.
Modi stated, “It is a fact that the citizens of this nation have twice bestowed a resounding mandate upon our government.” However, the issue seems to be that they question whether a ‘gareeb ka beta’ – a son of a humble background – can lead. They believed this seat was their hereditary right.”
Taking a dig at the newly formed opposition bloc called INDIA, Modi criticized their name change from UPA to INDIA, stating that a mere change in the name won’t alter their fortunes. He highlighted that even the name “INDIA” was formulated with the help of his party, NDA, and noted an element of arrogance within the new alliance.
Modi recalled a commitment he had made in 2018 during a vote of no confidence against his government. He said another motion would happen in 2023 and a third in 2028.
He reminded that under Congress’s rule, India ranked 10th to 12th in the global economy. But after 2014, it rose to the top five economies. He predicted that by the 2028 motion, India would be the third-largest economy.
Modi also shared his government’s accomplishments in the past nine years. He highlighted how the Swachh Bharat Mission, recognized by WHO, saved 3 lakh lives and UNICEF stated the poor save Rs 50,000 yearly due to it. He thanked the opposition for the motion, giving him a chance to detail his government’s work.”
He confidently projected that by the next no-confidence motion in 2028, India will become the third-largest economy globally.
Modi proudly listed his government’s achievements, including the Swachh Bharat Mission, which has been acknowledged by WHO and UNICEF for its positive impact on public health and poverty reduction. Despite these accomplishments, he criticized the opposition for ignoring these achievements.
As Modi spoke, there was a walkout by the opposition after about an hour and 40 minutes. Gaurav Gogoi, the deputy leader of the Congress, expressed that they walked out because Modi seemed to evade responsibility for issues in Manipur. Gogoi criticized Modi for focusing on his government’s achievements instead of addressing concerns about Manipur, particularly related to violence, rapes, unemployment, and relations with China.
Following Prime Minister Modi’s speech, Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury faced suspension. Union Minister Prahlad Joshi proposed a motion due to Chowdhury’s bad behaviour. The motion said the House was worried about how Chowdhury disrespected the Chair and House rules. It asked for a committee to look into it and report back. As a result, Chowdhury cannot do his House duties until the committee finishes its work.
Earlier, Chowdhury criticized Modi for not talking about Manipur. He compared Modi to a businessman named Nirav Modi who ran away. He also compared Modi to a character from stories who was blind. His words upset some members, and they wanted him to say sorry. During Modi’s speech, Chowdhury kept interrupting, asking Modi to talk about Manipur.”