Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge used the occasion of his party's foundation day to launch a direct and forceful critique of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). In a significant address, he accused the BJP government of systematically "snatching away people's rights" and warned that both the Indian Constitution and democracy are facing a serious threat.
Foundation Day Becomes Platform for Political Attack
The political salvo was fired on December 28, 2025, as the Indian National Congress celebrated its founding. Kharge, in his speech, drew a sharp contrast between his party's historical legacy and the current political climate. He reminded the nation that the framework of Fundamental Rights that became a cornerstone of the Indian Constitution was originally prepared by the Congress party back in 1931.
He emphasized that these rights, painstakingly woven into the constitutional fabric, are now in peril. "The framework of Fundamental Rights prepared by the Congress in 1931 became part of our Constitution," Kharge stated, adding the grave caveat that "today, both the Constitution and democracy are under threat." This statement forms the core of his indictment against the Modi-led government.
Allegations of Democratic Erosion
While not listing specific policy examples, the Congress chief's broadside points to a deepening political rift in India. His comments reflect the opposition's persistent narrative that the current administration is centralizing power and undermining democratic institutions and freedoms. The charge of "snatching rights" is a potent one in the Indian political discourse, often used to critique laws and actions perceived as authoritarian or majoritarian.
The event was live-tweeted by Kharge himself from his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, @kharge, ensuring his message reached a wide audience instantly. The tweet, which simply announced "LIVE: Congress Foundation Day celebrations" with a link, served as a digital gateway to the politically charged proceedings in New Delhi.
A Battle of Narratives and Legacy
Kharge's speech is more than just routine opposition criticism. It is a strategic attempt to reclaim the Congress's identity as the principal architect of India's democratic and constitutional values. By invoking the 1931 Karachi session resolution on rights, he positions his party as the original guardian of liberties, juxtaposed against the BJP, which he portrays as a force dismantling that very legacy.
This foundation day attack sets the stage for a continued and intense ideological battle in the lead-up to future elections. The Congress, under Kharge's leadership, is clearly aiming to frame the political contest as a fight to preserve the foundational principles of the republic against a ruling party it accuses of overreach. The BJP is yet to issue a formal response to these specific allegations, but a sharp rebuttal is expected as the war of words intensifies.
