In a powerful debut speech in Lok Sabha, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra highlighted critical issues plaguing governance, including communal violence, judicial bias, and the misuse of federal agencies.
By PC Bureau
On a momentous day in the Lok Sabha, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra made her maiden speech, delivering a sharp critique of the ruling government while emphasizing the enduring power of India’s Constitution. Addressing the House during a special debate on the 75th anniversary of the Constitution, Gandhi Vadra drew attention to issues of governance, social justice, and the alleged misuse of power by the current regime.
In her measured yet impactful address, Gandhi Vadra described the Constitution as a “suraksha kavach” (protective shield) that safeguards the rights and freedoms of every Indian citizen. However, she warned that this shield was under attack. “Colleagues from the ruling side have made repeated attempts to break down this kavach over the past decade,” she said, cautioning against any moves to undermine its principles.
Personal Stories to Illuminate Systemic Issues
The Congress MP invoked real-life tragedies to illustrate her points. Recalling her meeting with the bereaved families of two brothers, Adnan and Uzair, whose father was killed in police violence during communal clashes in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, she said, “Their father was a tailor who dreamed of educating his sons. Adnan told me he would grow up to be a doctor and realize his father’s dream—a dream instilled in him by the Constitution of India.”
She also referred to the 2017 Unnao rape case to highlight the plight of those denied justice and protection under the current system.
Critique of Governance and Allegations of Favoritism
Gandhi Vadra did not hold back in her criticism of the government, accusing it of prioritizing a single industrialist over the welfare of 1.42 billion citizens. “While one person is favored, the needs and dreams of the rest are ignored,” she remarked, alluding to the BJP’s alleged support for Gautam Adani.
She further accused the government of weaponizing investigative agencies to suppress dissent. “False cases are filed against opposition leaders to stifle their voices,” she said, a claim echoed by other members of the opposition.
Defending Historical Contributions
The Congress leader took a moment to address attempts to diminish the legacy of India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. “India’s independence struggle was unique—rooted in truth and non-violence. The contributions of leaders like Nehru cannot be erased from history,” she declared, challenging efforts to rewrite historical narratives.
Call for Social Justice and Reservation Reforms
Gandhi Vadra expressed grave concern over what she termed as attempts to weaken the reservation system through measures like lateral entry and privatization. She also advocated for a nationwide caste census to ensure equitable representation for marginalized communities.
An Urgent Plea to Uphold Constitutional Values
Her speech concluded with an impassioned plea to preserve the sanctity of the Constitution. “Our Constitution empowers every citizen to seek justice and hold the government accountable. It is our duty to protect it from being undermined,” she said.
Gandhi Vadra’s maiden address, marked by its emotional resonance and pointed critique, underscored her emergence as a strong voice in Parliament. Her remarks set the tone for the opposition’s continued scrutiny of the government’s policies and actions as the debate on the Constitution’s legacy unfolded in the Lok Sabha.
