PM Modi Can't Talk About The Dignity Of The Constitution: Kapil Sibal Slams BJP

The recent Lok Sabha debate commemorated 75 years of India's Constitution, featuring critiques from Kapil Sibal on social justice and BJP's governance, while Kiren Rijiju defended the government's actions and highlighted India's role as a refuge for minorities.

Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal criticised the BJP, accusing them of prioritising power over constitutional values. During a press conference, Sibal stated, "They can do anything for power and still talk about the constitution. I don't think the PM Modi will talk about the dignity of the constitution (in the Lok Sabha). This is not good for the nation." He questioned the actions of the Election Commission and alleged that judges are appointed based on their compliance with ruling party directives.

Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju countered these accusations by criticising Congress for allegedly undermining the Constitution. Speaking in the Lok Sabha during a discussion on its 75th anniversary, Rijiju remarked, "You have attacked the Constitution, you have changed the preamble to the Constitution. You have changed the very soul of the Constitution. Then how can you blame others?" He accused Congress of altering its essence.

Debate on Constitutional Values

The Lok Sabha began a two-day debate on December 13 to mark 75 years since adopting India's Constitution. The discussion aimed to reflect on its significance and evaluate its current application. Rijiju also addressed concerns about minority safety in India, arguing that minorities often seek refuge in India when facing oppression elsewhere. He cited examples from countries like Pakistan and Bangladesh to support his point.

Sibal further expressed concerns about social justice, highlighting issues such as caste-based discrimination and election financing. He stated that socio-economic and political justice envisioned by the Constitution's framers remains unfulfilled. "There is no social justice as Dalits are being lynched," he said, emphasising that caste dynamics and money influence elections.

Rijiju defended India's record on minority protection by comparing it with neighbouring countries' situations. He argued that India is often a haven for minorities facing persecution abroad. "If there is oppression against minorities or some problem arises, the first country where they come to seek protection is India," he asserted.

The debate underscored differing perspectives on constitutional adherence and governance in India today. While Sibal criticised perceived deviations from constitutional principles, Rijiju defended government actions and highlighted India's role as a refuge for persecuted minorities globally.