A fiery exchange unfolded in the Rajya Sabha during a discussion on the Constitution, as Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge clashed with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. Kharge accused the BJP-led government of undermining democratic principles, while Sitharaman criticized Congress for using Constitutional amendments to protect party leaders rather than strengthening democracy.
Sitharaman highlighted that during Congress’s rule, amendments were passed to limit freedoms, citing early restrictions on free speech. She also criticized former Prime Ministers Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi for allegedly prioritizing power consolidation over democratic values. Refuting opposition claims, Sitharaman defended the government’s democratic credentials and accused Congress of misleading the public.
Kharge, in his counterattack, questioned the BJP’s commitment to the Constitution, alleging that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) had opposed its adoption. He also accused BJP leaders of disrespecting national symbols, referencing historical incidents where effigies of prominent leaders like B.R. Ambedkar and Mahatma Gandhi were burned. Kharge remarked that while Sitharaman may excel in rhetoric, her actions do not align with democratic ideals.
The debate reflected broader ideological clashes between Congress and the BJP, with both sides accusing each other of failing to uphold Constitutional values.
