In a recent address, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge launched a scathing critique against the BJP, decrying their stance on social justice and secularism embedded within the Constitution. The fervor of Kharge’s comments was ignited by BJP MP Anantkumar Hegde’s statement proposing amendments to the Constitution, an assertion Kharge views as a direct assault on foundational principles.
Kharge’s rebuke unfolded during a press conference at the party headquarters, where he accused the ruling party of harboring intentions solely focused on amending the Constitution. He underscored Hegde’s remarks made at a gathering in Karwar, Karnataka, emphasizing the need for a two-thirds majority in both houses of Parliament to rectify what he perceives as distortions and superfluous additions made by the Congress.
Expressing deep concern, Kharge lamented, “I have to say sadly that the Constitution has not been fully accepted by the BJP.” He highlighted the dissonance between Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s assurances against altering the Constitution and the voiced necessity for a significant mandate to amend it.
“Their (BJP’s) opposition to social justice and secularism enshrined in the Constitution is alarming,” Kharge asserted. He warned against the repercussions of such a mindset, predicting turmoil if attempts were made to alter the Constitution. Kharge attributed Prime Minister Modi’s ambitious call for a 400-plus seat mandate for the NDA to the party’s purported agenda of amending the Constitution.
Taking a firm stance, Kharge challenged the BJP to demonstrate their commitment to B R Ambedkar’s vision by censuring members who advocate for constitutional amendments. He declared, “If anyone in my party makes such remarks, I will remove him. If they (BJP) have the courage, they should do it.” Kharge emphasized the imperative for the BJP to introspect and purge elements within their ranks who espouse views contrary to the Constitution’s ethos.
Anantkumar Hegde, a six-term Lok Sabha MP and former Union minister, is no stranger to controversy due to his hardline positions. The BJP, in response to Hegde’s comments, labeled them as his personal opinion and sought clarification. The Karnataka unit of the BJP distanced itself from Hegde’s remarks, reaffirming the party’s unwavering commitment to uphold the nation’s Constitution.
Kharge’s impassioned address serves as a stark reminder of the ideological chasm between the Congress and the BJP, particularly concerning fundamental principles enshrined in the Constitution. As the political discourse continues to evolve, the clash between differing visions for India’s constitutional framework remains a contentious battleground.