Congress Leader Criticizes RSS Chief Over Unemployment and Democratic Rights

Mumbai, October 20 (Daily Kiran) : Bhai Jagatap, a Congress leader and member of the Legislative Council, has sharply criticized RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat for his comments regarding power shifts in India. Speaking in Mumbai, Jagatap raised concerns over pressing issues such as unemployment, exam paper leaks, and the erosion of democratic rights under the current government.

He emphasized that Bhagwat should first address the alarming rates of unemployment among youth and students, as well as the integrity of examination processes, which have been compromised by leaks. Jagatap noted that individuals associated with the ruling BJP have been implicated in such scandals. He expressed that the situation in India resembles a state of undeclared emergency since 2014, with citizens’ constitutional rights being increasingly restricted.

Jagatap also responded to U.S. Senator Marco Rubio‘s support for diversifying India’s energy portfolio, questioning the government’s stance on purchasing oil from Russia. He called for clarity regarding India’s interests in international oil trade and demanded accountability from BJP leaders on this matter.

In reaction to Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju’s dismissal of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge’s calls for all-party meetings, Jagatap criticized the government’s approach to democracy. He asserted that redistricting is a constitutional process that should involve dialogue with opposition parties, including the Congress and the INDIA alliance. He raised concerns about potential electoral fraud through electronic voting machines and the redistricting process, warning that these could undermine citizens’ and parties’ constitutional rights.

Addressing comments made by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar regarding terrorism, Jagatap referenced the Pulwama attack, urging that discussions on terrorism should also consider domestic incidents and civilian casualties. He called on Singh to clarify his position and responsibilities regarding terrorism.

On Kharge’s proposed meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Jagatap affirmed that raising national issues is a constitutional right of the opposition leader. He expressed skepticism about the outcomes of such discussions but insisted that the opposition must voice its concerns on issues like redistricting and women’s reservation. He also urged the government to convene a meeting with all political parties.

Regarding Rahul Gandhi, Jagatap reaffirmed that the Congress leader will continue to advocate for the public’s issues. He highlighted Gandhi’s extensive travels, covering over 6,000 kilometers, to engage with youth, students, and farmers, and urged the BJP to respond to the public’s concerns rather than focus on the Congress leader.