INDIA Alliance Reduces BJP Seat Tally to 240, Questions Modi Government's Stability

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has asserted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government is a minority one, heavily reliant on allies like JD(U) and TDP. Speaking at an event in Mumbai marking Rajiv Gandhi's 80th birth anniversary, Kharge predicted the collapse of the BJP-led NDA government, which took office on June 9.

Kharge highlighted that the INDIA alliance significantly impacted the BJP in the recent Lok Sabha elections, reducing its seat count to 240 from 303 in 2019. He noted that Maharashtra played a crucial role, with the BJP securing only 17 out of 48 seats, while the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) won 30 seats.

Opposition Strength and Legislative Impact

The Congress chief emphasised that the growing strength of the opposition INDIA bloc has hindered BJP's legislative agenda. He pointed out that proposed laws, such as the Waqf Amendment Bill, 2024, now require more scrutiny and are referred to joint parliamentary panels. This shift contrasts with earlier times when laws were passed without much consultation.

Kharge accused the Modi government of neglecting the poor and prioritising the rich. He warned that this approach would lead to their downfall. "These people cannot run the country for long. Today or tomorrow they will collapse," he stated.

Importance of State-Level Support

Kharge stressed the importance of state-level support in safeguarding the Constitution. He argued that MPs alone are insufficient and that MLAs' backing is crucial. This message comes ahead of the Maharashtra assembly polls, highlighting the need for opposition parties to form state governments.

He also justified his party’s demand for a nationwide caste census, arguing it would help identify which sections need more government support. Kharge claimed that BJP lacks commitment to improving common citizens' lives, making it essential to establish a strong MVA government in Maharashtra.

Criticism of Modi Government's Policies

Kharge criticised PM Modi for allegedly diverting investments meant for Maharashtra to Gujarat. He cited the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project as an example, noting its cost escalation to Rs 3 lakh crore and questioning its utility for the poor.

He also accused Modi of toppling opposition-led state governments and engaging in petty actions like putting his photo on COVID-19 vaccine certificates. "He does such petty things," Kharge remarked.

Shiv Sena UBT chief Uddhav Thackeray and NCP SP president Sharad Pawar attended the event alongside Kharge. The Congress leader underscored that Rajiv Gandhi worked quietly for national development even after winning over 400 Lok Sabha seats in 1984, launching projects across various sectors without seeking personal credit.

Kharge concluded by urging opposition parties not to allow Maharashtra to be controlled from Delhi. He called for unity among Congress, Shiv Sena UBT, and NCP SP to ensure a strong opposition presence in both state and central governments.

The Congress president reiterated that saving the Constitution remains a top priority for the opposition bloc. He emphasised that having majorities in state assemblies is vital for preventing undesirable constitutional amendments.