In a strong defense of his party's legacy, Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka asserted that only the ideology of the Congress party can protect the nation. He issued a stark warning against the perils of communalism in politics during a press conference held on Sunday.
Historic Foundations and Contemporary Threats
Addressing the media at the party's district office in Khammam on the occasion of the Congress's foundation day, Bhatti described December 28 as a historic date marking the birth of the party. He reminded the audience that the Congress spearheaded the freedom struggle against British rule and laid the groundwork for India's independence, a period when the country's wealth was being systematically plundered.
The Deputy Chief Minister expressed deep concern over what he sees as deliberate attempts to fracture society. "Certain forces are attempting to divide society along religious and caste lines for narrow political gain," Bhatti said. He cautioned that while such strategies might offer short-term electoral benefits, they pose a severe long-term danger to the social fabric of the country.
Allegations Against the Central Government
Bhatti Vikramarka launched a direct attack on the BJP-led government at the Centre, leveling serious allegations. He claimed the central government is conspiring to weaken and erase the name of Mahatma Gandhi from public memory. Furthermore, he accused it of deliberately diluting the National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGA).
"This is causing grave injustice to the poor," he stated. Bhatti contrasted this with the Congress's record, noting that a previous Congress-led government had once allocated a substantial Rs 1 lakh crore to the flagship scheme to prevent hunger and ensure livelihood security. He alleged that the present BJP administration is shifting the financial burden of the program onto states, thereby undermining its effectiveness and core objectives.
Congress's Pledge and Future Actions
Reaffirming his party's commitment, the Deputy CM declared that the Congress will intensify its political fight against the BJP government to protect the interests of the poor and safeguard democratic values. He announced plans for a massive Congress party flag festival across Telangana on January 26.
He called upon party cadres to actively participate by hoisting Congress flags on rooftops and distributing pamphlets that explain the party's core ideology to the common people. Bhatti concluded by emphasizing the party's foundational role, stating, "The Congress laid the foundations for India to emerge as the world's largest democracy and a major economic power rooted in democratic values."
