Priyanka Gandhi Calls for Government Accountability in Debut Lok Sabha Speech

New Delhi, 13th December 2024: In her debut speech in the Lok Sabha, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra demanded immediate answers regarding the government’s accountability to the public.

Drawing attention to the BJP-led government’s frequent references to the actions of past Congress administrations, the Wayanad MP questioned, “The government speaks of what Nehru did but avoids addressing current issues. What is your responsibility? Is everything Nehru’s responsibility?” she asked.

During the discussion on the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution, Priyanka Gandhi accused the ruling party of making repeated attempts to undermine the Constitution over the last decade.

She also highlighted the BJP’s newfound focus on the Constitution, attributing it to the narrow victory in the recent Lok Sabha elections. “Had the results been different, they would have already started altering the Constitution. The truth is, this renewed talk is due to the people’s clear message that the Constitution must remain untouched. The near-miss in the elections has made them realize that any attempt to change it will not succeed,” she said.

Earlier in the day, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, while opening the debate on the Constitution, criticized Congress leaders for placing personal interests above constitutional values and institutional integrity. Singh referred to past constitutional amendments and violations during the Emergency era, including the controversial appointment of a fourth-ranked judge as Chief Justice.

Top quotes from the debate include:

– “Our Constitution is a ‘suraksha kavach’ (safety shield) that protects the citizens. It is a shield of justice, unity, and the Right to Express. It’s disheartening that in the last 10 years, members of the ruling side, who make grand claims, have made every effort to break down this shield.”

– “Conduct elections through a ballot, and the truth will be revealed.”

– “If not for the Lok Sabha results, the BJP would have already begun altering the Constitution. The truth is, they are now talking about the Constitution because the people have shown they will protect it. Maybe they still don’t understand that India’s Constitution is not the Constitution of the Sangh.”

– “A caste census is needed in this country. Farmers are waiting for a miracle.”