On July 3rd, during the debate on the Motion of Thanks on the President's address in the Rajya Sabha, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a swipe at Congress leader Sonia Gandhi, criticising previous governments for being run on "autopilot" and "remote control." He remarked, "There are such people who are used to running the government on autopilot and remote pilot. They don't believe in working." 

This statement reflects PM Modi's critique of past governance practices, suggesting a contrast with his administration's approach to active and hands-on leadership. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a strong criticism against the opposition during his address, accusing them of attempting to "blackout" the NDA's victory in the Lok Sabha polls. He emphasised the significance of his government securing a third consecutive term, which he noted had not been achieved in over 60 years. This assertion underscored his administration's electoral achievements and the challenges it faced in overcoming opposition narratives. 

"The government has completed 10 years, and it has 20 more years to go. Efforts are being made to black out the decision of the people of the country," Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated. This remark reflects his confidence in the government's longevity and his assertion that there are attempts to undermine or obscure the mandate given by the Indian electorate. It underscores his commitment to continuing the government's agenda despite opposition challenges and criticisms. 

During his address in the Rajya Sabha, Prime Minister Narendra Modi maintained a combative stance amidst disruptions and sloganeering by opposition MPs, who were calling for the Leader of Opposition to speak. Mallikarjun Kharge, the Leader of Opposition, sought to intervene, but his request was not granted by Rajya Sabha chairperson Jagdeep Dhankhar, leading to a walkout by opposition MPs. 

PM Modi criticised the opposition, asserting that they were unwilling to listen to responses to their queries and were instead choosing to leave. He remarked, "The country is watching that those who spread lies do not have the strength to hear the truth. They are insulting the Upper House." 

Prime Minister Modi expressed surprise at seeing certain individuals who previously opposed Constitution Day now waving copies of the Constitution in Parliament. During a recent session, including the oath ceremony of newly-elected lawmakers, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and other opposition MPs prominently displayed the Constitution. 

PM Modi recalled his proposal in the Lok Sabha to celebrate November 26 as Constitution Day, noting objections at that time from those who now enthusiastically support the Constitution's display. He emphasised that people voted for the NDA because they trusted their commitment to safeguarding the Constitution. 

Highlighting the Constitution's importance as a guiding beacon, PM Modi affirmed its value in shaping India's path forward. He also criticised the Congress, suggesting their actions during the Emergency and subsequent amendments as contradictory to the spirit of the Constitution. 

The Prime Minister criticised the opposition for what he described as a selective approach towards addressing atrocities against women, citing incidents like the public flogging of a woman in West Bengal's Chopra and cases of sexual abuse in Sandeshkhali. He expressed concern that even senior leaders from the opposition had not spoken out about these incidents. 

PM Modi also accused the Congress of harbouring an anti-OBC (Other Backward Classes) mindset, alleging that the party strategically fields Dalit candidates in elections where defeat seems inevitable. He specifically mentioned Mallikarjun Kharge, noting his energetic role in shielding the party from blame during electoral losses, suggesting that Dalit and backward leaders are often made scapegoats to protect the Gandhi family's interests. 

Speaking about the NEET-UG paper leak case, Prime Minister Modi assured the youth that the government is committed to holding those responsible accountable. He emphasised that investigative agencies have been given full autonomy to address corruption without interference from the government. PM Modi criticised opposition parties for politicising the issue and accused them of jeopardising the future of the country's youth for political gain. 

Regarding the ethnic strife in Manipur, PM Modi addressed concerns raised by the opposition, stating that incidents of violence have been decreasing. He highlighted that more than 500 arrests have been made and over 11,000 FIRs filed in Manipur as part of efforts to restore normalcy. PM Modi urged the opposition to refrain from politicising the situation in Manipur, asserting that the state's residents would eventually reject such political tactics. 

Ethnic violence in Manipur since May 2023 has resulted in over 200 deaths and displaced thousands. Despite criticism for not visiting the affected state, PM Modi emphasised the government's ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability in Manipur. 

Image Source: The Indian Express