TFP Bureau, Raipur; June 26, 2024: With MP Rahul Gandhi assuming the role of Leader of Opposition, democracy has been bolstered, ensuring a check on government arbitrariness and amplifying the voices of various societal segments, including the poor, farmers, youth, and the middle class. This assertion was made by State Congress President Deepak Baij, who emphasized that constitutional institutions would now be safeguarded against arbitrary appointments of Sangh-supported individuals.
Deepak Baij highlighted Rahul Gandhi’s persistent efforts to challenge the Modi government’s dictatorial policies and anti-people laws, from the Parliament to the streets. Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Yatra and Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra have dismantled the climate of fear imposed by the government and countered the misuse of government machinery, giving a platform to the concerns of all sections of society. Baij affirmed that the Congress will now play an even stronger opposition role in the House, advocating for public interests.
Over the past decade, the Modi government has faced criticism for introducing anti-farmer laws, making adverse amendments to labor laws, and implementing anti-tribal provisions in the Forest Rights Act without considering opposition views. These actions have caused widespread public discontent. Baij stated that such arbitrary legislative practices will now be halted, ensuring adherence to democratic norms and protecting fundamental rights.
Baij also recalled the arbitrary suspension of 78 MPs and the muting of opposition voices in Parliament. He stressed that such actions to suppress dissent will no longer be tolerated. The arbitrary termination and subsequent restoration of Rahul Gandhi’s parliamentary membership exemplify the struggle against dictatorial governance.
Furthermore, Baij condemned the ruling party’s encroachment on constitutional institutions by appointing favored individuals to key positions such as the CBI Director, Central Vigilance Commissioner, Chief Election Commissioner, and members of the National Human Rights Commission, among others. He assured that these appointments would now be subjected to opposition scrutiny and conducted based on established criteria, ensuring impartiality and integrity.
