Mumbai, Jun 26: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday slammed the Congress on the 43rd anniversary of imposition of Emergency, saying India was “turned into a jail for the selfish personal interests” of the Gandhi family.
Addressing a meeting in Mumbai organised by the BJP to mark the Emergency anniversary, Mr. Modi said the day needed to be observed to re-dedicate oneself to the protection of the Constitution and democracy.
“Emergency is a black spot on the golden history of the nation. Observing black day today is not just to criticise the Congress for its sin of imposing Emergency but also to create an awareness for protection of Constitution and democracy,” Mr. Modi said.
Mr. Modi lashed out at the Congress for “spreading illusionary fear” about the Constitution, Dalits and minorities facing danger (in the BJP-led regime). He said the Congress could never improve. “For promotion of self-interest, they destroyed their own party.”
“For selfish interests, the Congress turned the country into a jail by imprisoning Opposition leaders. For them, the country and democracy have no value. Instead of [Indira Gandhi] quitting as Prime Minister after the court verdict, Emergency was imposed. How can these people talk about safeguarding the Constitution,” he said.
“When Kishore Kumarji refused to sing for them [the Congress], his songs were not allowed to be played on the radio,” he pointed out.
'No questions about EVMs after Karnataka polls'
Mr. Modi accused the Congress of criticising electronic voting machines (EVMs) and the functioning of the Election Commission after they were reduced to 44 seats from 400 in the Lok Sabha. “They did not question the EVMs after the recent Karnataka elections,” he added.
He also criticised the Congress for moving an impeachment motion against the Supreme Court chief justice.
“They never imagined that they can face corruption charges and be out on bail. Hence, the Congress decided to move an impeachment motion against the Chief Justice of India,” he said.
The government was committed to protecting the Constitution and upholding democratic values. “The Constitution is not just a book but a means to fulfil aspirations and wishes of the common man.”
Mr. Modi also paid tributes to Ramnath Goenka of The Indian Express, Kuldeep Nayar and Statesman newspaper for “standing up” against Emergency.
“Many of them were not our supporters either. Nayar is critical of us. But they fought for democracy,” he said.
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