Assam: Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi launched a sharp critique of the BJP on December 16, accusing the ruling party of sidestepping pressing national concerns.
Speaking on the INDIA alliance’s strategy for Parliament, Gogoi asserted that BJP leaders were evading discussions on critical issues, instead choosing to attack the legacies of Congress stalwarts like Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, and Rajiv Gandhi.
In his remarks, Gogoi took aim at the Union Cabinet’s recent approval of the controversial One Nation, One Election bill, describing it as a direct assault on India’s federal structure. He called for robust parliamentary debate on the matter, stressing the Congress party’s opposition to the proposed overhaul of the electoral process.
“The Congress party has made its stance clear. One Nation, One Election is an attack on federalism. The election process in a diverse nation like India demands careful discussion in Parliament,” Gogoi said, underscoring the potential challenges the bill could pose to the country’s democratic framework.
The One Nation, One Election proposal seeks to synchronize elections for the Lok Sabha, state assemblies, urban bodies, and panchayats within a 100-day window. While BJP leaders have championed the initiative as a time-saving reform that would streamline the electoral process, opposition parties have voiced significant concerns. Critics argue that the proposal undermines the federal spirit of India by centralizing electoral timelines and requiring extensive constitutional amendments. Even the JD(U), a long-time ally of the BJP, has expressed skepticism about the feasibility of the plan.
Beyond electoral reforms, Gogoi reiterated the INDIA alliance’s commitment to raising vital issues in Parliament, including economic challenges, unemployment, and rising communal tensions. He accused the BJP of avoiding meaningful dialogue on these matters, alleging a deliberate strategy to divert attention.
In a separate note, Gogoi paid tribute to legendary tabla maestro Zakir Hussain, following news of his passing. Reflecting on Hussain’s extraordinary contributions to India’s cultural heritage, Gogoi stated, “The entire nation should honor his immense contribution to the cultural heritage of India.”
As the One Nation, One Election debate gains momentum, the contrasting perspectives of the ruling BJP and the opposition INDIA bloc signal intense parliamentary deliberations in the days to come.