PM Modi Highlights People’s Mandate for Third Term and Criticizes Congress Over Emergency

While the Opposition hit back at the Prime Minister’s “Emergency” remark and questioned his government’s style of functioning, the BJP said that it will launch a nationwide programme on the imposition of Emergency in 1975 to “expose” the Congress’ “authoritarianism” and its disregard for the Constitution. BJP president J.P. Nadda will address the main event, titled “Dark Days of Democracy”, at the party headquarters on Tuesday.

Ahead of the commencement of the first session of the 18th Lok Sabha, Prime Minister Modi said that this formation of Parliament aims to fulfil the aspirations of the ordinary citizens of Bharat. “It is an extremely important opportunity to achieve new momentum and new heights with renewed zeal and enthusiasm. With the goal, dreams and resolutions of building a ‘Sreshtha’ (great) and ‘Viksit’ (developed) Bharat by 2047, the session of the 18th Lok Sabha begins today,” he said.

He noted that this election was also very significant because, for the second time since Independence, the people of the country have given a government the opportunity to serve for a third consecutive term.

“This opportunity, coming after 60 years, is a very proud event in itself. When the people of the country choose a government for a third term, it signifies their acceptance of its intentions and policies. They have affirmed their trust in its dedication to the people, and I express my heartfelt gratitude to my fellow citizens for the same,” the PM said.

Mr Modi mentioned that over the past 10 years, his government has continuously strived to establish a tradition “because we believe that while a majority is necessary to run a government, consensus is crucial to govern a country”.

Hitting out at the Congress over the imposition of Emergency, the Prime Minister said: “Today, we are meeting on the 24th of June. Tomorrow is the 25th of June. For those dedicated to upholding the dignity of our Constitution and who believe in Bharat’s democratic traditions, the 25th of June is an unforgettable day. Tomorrow marks 50 years since a dark chapter was written into India’s democracy.”

“The new generation of Bharat must never forget how the Constitution was completely disregarded, torn apart, and the country was turned into a prison, with democracy utterly suppressed. These 50 years since the Emergency remind us to protect our Constitution and democracy with pride. The countrymen must resolve that such a travesty will never be allowed to happen again. We commit ourselves to ensuring a vibrant democracy and fulfilling the common man’s dreams as outlined by the Indian Constitution,” the PM added.

Pointing out that the nation has great expectations from members of Parliament, the Prime Minister urged all MPs to use this opportunity for public welfare and service, taking every possible step in the public interest.

“The people also expect constructive contributions from the Opposition. Despite the disappointment so far, I hope that in the 18th Lok Sabha, the Opposition will play its role effectively and uphold the dignity of our democracy. I trust the Opposition will live up to these expectations,” he said.

The Prime Minister noted that the common man expects debate and diligence in the House and do not expect tantrums, drama, and disturbance. “They seek substance, not slogans. The country needs a good and responsible Opposition, and I am confident that the MPs elected to the 18th Lok Sabha will strive to meet these expectations of the common man,” Mr Modi said.