Kharge Attacks Centre: Suppressing Student Voices is an Assault on Democracy

Centre Accused of Undermining Democracy and Institutions

Congress President and Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, has leveled serious allegations against the central government, accusing it of continuously damaging democracy and constitutional values in the country, and weakening the autonomy of democratic institutions.

He specifically criticized the government over the police action on student protests in Delhi and the lack of adequate opportunities for the opposition in Parliament. Kharge vehemently condemned the lathi-charge and use of tear gas on students and youth peacefully protesting at Jantar Mantar, calling it a blatant violation of democratic rights.

He stated that in any democratic system, citizens, especially youth and students, have the right to express their views peacefully. However, the government is attempting to suppress every voice of dissent through force, which is unacceptable.

Questions Raised Over Opposition's Role in Parliament

The Congress President also raised serious questions about the conduct of Parliament's monsoon session. He alleged that the government is not providing the opposition sufficient opportunities to discuss crucial issues concerning students, youth, and other public interests.

Kharge claimed that microphones of opposition MPs are often turned off and efforts are made to avoid discussions on important topics, thereby affecting parliamentary democratic traditions. He asserted that over the past few years, the independence of democratic institutions, the federal structure, and constitutional bodies have faced increasing pressure due to the policies of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

According to Kharge, the fundamental spirit of democracy, which is based on dialogue, dissent, and accountability, is being weakened.

Appeal for Resolution Through Dialogue

Kharge urged the central government to show sensitivity towards issues concerning students. He appealed for equal opportunities for all parties to voice their opinions in Parliament and to uphold the dignity and independence of democratic institutions.

The Congress President emphasized that in a democracy, the most appropriate and effective path to finding solutions is through dialogue, rather than suppressing dissent.

Currently, there has been no official response from the central government regarding Mallikarjun Kharge's accusations. Meanwhile, political confrontation between the ruling party and the opposition is escalating over student movements, police actions, and parliamentary proceedings.