On Saturday, Congress Parliamentary Party president Sonia Gandhi addressed the newly elected MPs in the Central Hall of Parliament, describing the Lok Sabha election results as a "political and moral defeat" for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. She asserted that Modi has lost the moral right to leadership and criticized his decision to get sworn in again on Sunday, instead of taking responsibility for the perceived failure.
During her speech, Gandhi was unanimously re-elected as the chairperson of the Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) through a voice vote. She emphasized that the prime minister sought the mandate solely in his name, excluding his party and its allies, and subsequently suffered a political and moral defeat. She argued that Modi has lost the right to leadership as he did not secure the mandate he sought.
Gandhi stated that, despite this, Modi intends to proceed with his swearing-in ceremony, indicating a disregard for the will of the people. She underscored the obligation of CPP members to be vigilant and proactive in holding Modi and his new NDA government accountable, insisting that Parliament should no longer be dominated and disrupted as it has been over the past decade.
She criticized the ruling establishment for mistreating members and pushing through legislation without proper consideration and debate. Gandhi also stressed the importance of respecting parliamentary committees and ensuring that Parliament is not muzzled or stifled.
Gandhi highlighted the challenges ahead and urged Congress MPs to be alert to any attempts to increase polarization and erode the secular and democratic values enshrined in the Constitution. She called for these attempts to be thwarted and reaffirmed her commitment to fulfilling the trust and confidence placed in her by the party.
She described the current situation as a renewed opportunity for the Congress party to restore parliamentary politics to its rightful place and noted that the people have voted against divisiveness and authoritarianism, aiming to strengthen parliamentary politics and safeguard the Constitution. She emphasized the need for the party to continue focusing on economic and social justice.
Gandhi also acknowledged the support from the Indian bloc allies, which has significantly increased the party's presence in Parliament. She praised the Bharat Jodo yatras as historic movements and commended Rahul Gandhi for his determination and resilience in the face of personal and political attacks.
She congratulated the newly elected MPs for their success in a challenging election and lauded their effective campaigning. She also extended her support to those who contested but did not win, appreciating their valiant efforts.
Gandhi expressed gratitude to Congress workers for their unwavering commitment during difficult times, acknowledging their courage and dedication. She noted that the Congress party has demonstrated resilience against a "mighty and malevolent machine" that sought to destroy it through financial constraints and a defamation campaign.
Lastly, she praised Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge for his leadership, acknowledging his extraordinary commitment to the party organization. Kharge, in turn, expressed his admiration for Sonia Gandhi's continued service and guidance to the party, saluting her for her enduring dedication.
