A Strong message of Mallikarjun Kharge on the Eve of 76th Republic Day

On the occasion of India’s 76th Republic Day, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge delivered a strong message, stressing the need to protect the Constitution and stay true to its foundational values. His speech was a sharp critique of the current government, urging a renewed commitment to the principles enshrined in the Constitution.

Kharge began his address by highlighting the importance of the day, marking 75 years since the adoption of the Indian Constitution. He paid homage to the Constitution's framers, including figures like Mahatma Gandhi, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Patel, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, Maulana Azad, and Sarojini Naidu, who played key roles in shaping the Indian Republic. He also acknowledged the dedication of the armed forces, paramilitary, and security personnel for their sacrifices in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty.

Kharge didn’t hesitate to criticize the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing the government of weakening institutions, interfering with independent bodies, and disregarding the federal structure. He emphasized the gradual decline of carefully established institutions and the growing political meddling in autonomous organizations. He also pointed out how the government was undermining federalism and infringing on the rights of states governed by opposition parties.

The Congress leader also addressed the ongoing unrest in Manipur, referring to it as a crisis that has persisted for 21 months without the required accountability from the top levels of government. He condemned the handling of the situation and called for greater transparency and responsibility in resolving the issue.

A key point in Kharge's address was the urgent need to protect the core values of the Constitution-justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. He warned that an authoritarian regime was steadily eroding these principles and appealed to the nation to safeguard the Constitution’s ideals. Kharge underscored that the true tribute to those who fought for India’s independence would be the collective effort to protect and uphold the Constitution, regardless of the sacrifices involved.

Kharge also highlighted concerns regarding the country’s economic downturn, noting that India had fallen from the fourth to the fifth-largest economy globally. He attributed this decline to the government's policies and criticized Union Home Minister Amit Shah for disrespecting the Constitution and its architects. Kharge called for economic reforms that would strengthen the nation’s economy and elevate its global standing.

While critiquing the government, Kharge also recognized the contributions of various groups in nation-building, including daily wage workers, laborers, gig workers, artists, writers, and athletes. He acknowledged their role in preserving India’s cultural heritage and paid tribute to the Congress Party, Dr. Ambedkar, and Pandit Nehru for their efforts in securing the country’s independence and upholding the Constitution’s values.

Kharge’s speech wasn’t just a critique it was also a call to action. He urged citizens to come together in defense of the Constitution, invoking slogans like Jai Bapu, Jai Bhim, and Jai Samvidhan. He also shared plans to visit Indore, where he intended to hold a meeting at Dr. Ambedkar’s birthplace to emphasize the importance of protecting the Constitution.

As India marked its 76th Republic Day, Kharge’s words struck a chord with many who are concerned about the country’s current trajectory. His address served as a powerful reminder of the importance of defending the Constitution and the values that form the cornerstone of the Indian Republic. The Republic Day celebrations, including the grand parade in Delhi, were a display of India’s cultural diversity, unity, and military strength, with President Droupadi Murmu leading the event and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto attending as the Chief Guest.

Republic Day is a highly significant occasion in India, symbolizing the nation’s unity, diversity, and commitment to democratic ideals. The focal point of the celebrations is the grand Republic Day parade in New Delhi, where India's cultural richness, military might, and technological progress are on full display. The parade, held at Rajpath, features participation from military personnel, police forces, and cultural groups from across the country, all coming together to celebrate India’s strength and unity.