PM Modi Slams Congress Over Emergency, Hails Constitution’s Legacy

New Delhi [India] (14 December, 2024): Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a sarcastic attack on Congress in the Lok Sabha during a debate marking 75 years of the implementation of the Constitution. Referring to the Emergency imposed in 1975, Modi said, “The Constitution was torn apart when it was completing 25 years; the Emergency was imposed, all constitutional rights were snatched, and the country was turned into a jail.” He claimed Congress stripped citizens of their rights and clamped down on media, adding, “Congress will never be able to clear this stain.”

Gandhi Family Accused of Hurting Constitution

Modi directly targeted the Gandhi family, accusing them of damaging constitutional values. He said, “One family of Congress left no stone unturned in hurting the Constitution…relentlessly pursuing wrong thoughts, wrong deeds, and wrong policies.” This pointed statement highlighted Modi’s view of Congress’s historical actions as harmful to India’s democratic structure.

India’s Democratic Legacy Praised by PM Modi

Shifting focus, the Prime Minister praised India’s democratic journey, calling it “extraordinary” and emphasizing the country’s ancient republican roots. Modi remarked, “India's democracy, its republican past has been very prosperous…India is known as the Mother of Democracy.” He highlighted how India's traditions and culture have long inspired global democratic ideals.

Constitution Makers Honored for Visionary Beliefs

The Prime Minister paid tribute to the framers of the Constitution, recognizing their insight in including India’s rich heritage into its foundational values. Modi said, “They believed in the great tradition and culture here…in the thousands of years of the journey.” He also highlighted their awareness of India's historic democratic philosophy, which shaped the document’s vision.

Recognition of Women-Led Development

Modi highlighted the progressive provisions of the Constitution, noting that it granted voting rights to women from the beginning. He highlighted how this foundation has led to “women-led development” in contemporary India, strengthening the inclusivity of the country's democratic framework.

Constitution and Controversy

Modi’s comments combined celebration of India’s democratic milestones with sarcastic criticism of Congress’s past. As Parliament reflected on 75 years of the Constitution’s adoption, the debate emphasized the associations of history, legacy, and political conversation.