Don't Air Polls Frustration in Parliament: PM to Congress

New Delhi: A day after the BJP swept the Assembly polls in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said the country has rejected negativity and urged the Opposition “not to vent its frustration” over the Assembly poll defeat inside Parliament and move forward with positivity. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said that they will continue to remain a responsible Opposition.

Addressing the media outside the Parliament building ahead of the Winter Session, the Prime Minister said: “The country has rejected negativity. We consistently have discussions with Opposition colleagues at the beginning of each session and appeal for everyone’s cooperation. This time too, all these processes have been followed as well.”

Talking about the Assembly poll results declared on Sunday, the PM said: “Based on the current election results, I would like to tell my Opposition colleagues that they have a golden opportunity. Instead of planning to vent their frustration over defeat (in Assembly elections) in this session, if they learn from this defeat, shun the idea of negativity that has been prevalent for the past nine years, and move forward with positivity in this session, the country’s perspective towards them will change.”

“A new door may open for them and even if they are in the Opposition, I am giving them good advice to come forward with positive thoughts. If we take ten steps, then you should take twelve steps while making decisions.”

Pointing out that everyone’s future was bright and there was no need for despair, Modi said: “But please, do not vent the frustration of defeat in the House. There might be disappointment. Your colleagues may have to do something to show their strength. But, at least, do not turn this temple of democracy into a platform for expressing frustration.”

He advised the Opposition to change its approach a bit, leave the confrontational attitude aside just for the sake of opposition, and contribute positively for the country’s benefit.

“Debate the shortcomings. You see, the hatred growing in the country today over certain issues might turn into love through such actions. So, there is an opportunity; don't let it slip away,” the Prime Minister said.

Urging the Opposition’s cooperation in the House, Modi said: “From a political perspective, I also want to say that it is in your interest to convey a message of positivity to the country. It’s not good for democracy if your image becomes associated with hatred and negativity. The Opposition is as crucial, valuable, and powerful in a democracy, and it should be equally capable. I make this statement once again for the well-being of democracy.”

In the beginning, the PM said that winter was late and it was approaching very slowly, but political heat was rising rapidly.

“Just yesterday, the election results for four states were announced, and the results are very encouraging. These results are encouraging for those who are committed to the well-being of the common man, and who are dedicated to the bright future of the country,” he said.

He asserted that those who move forward on the principles of empowering the four castes -- women, youth, farmers and the poor -- ensure concrete policies for their future and last-mile delivery, receive full support of the people.

“When there is good governance and consistent support for public welfare, the term ‘anti-incumbency’ becomes irrelevant. Some may call it pro-incumbency, good governance, transparency, national interest, or solid plans for public welfare, but this has been the experience that we have been witnessing consistently,” the PM added.

After a meeting of several Opposition parties to forge a strategy to corner the Narendra Modi government on issues of public interest, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said they will continue to remain a responsible Opposition.

In a post on X, Mr Kharge said: “As the Winter Session of Parliament begins today, the leaders of like-minded political parties deliberated upon the various pressing issues facing the nation.”

“As a responsible Opposition, we will stay the course and continue to make the Modi government accountable,” Mr Kharge added. The Winter Session of Parliament is due to have 15 sittings and to end on December 22.