In Shimla, Congress demonstrated in front of Gandhi statue under ‘Save Democracy Satyagraha’. The party accused the Center of attacking democratic institutions, paper leaks, irregularities in the voter list and ignoring farmers’ issues.
Congress organized ‘Save Democracy Satyagraha’ at the Ridge in Shimla on Tuesday. During this, a peaceful protest was held in front of the statue of Mahatma Gandhi and allegations were made that democratic institutions were being attacked in the country.
The protest was led by Sunil Panwar, President of All India Rajiv Gandhi Panchayati Raj Organization. State Congress Committee (PCC) officials, leaders of leading organizations and departments of the party, district officials and party workers participated in it.
Speaking to ANI during the protest, Panwar alleged that democratic institutions in the country were being weakened under the BJP-led central government. He said, “Today the democratic institutions of the country are not functioning with the independence they should. We have gathered near the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Shimla to hold a Satyagraha to protect the democratic institutions, democratic freedoms and the Constitution drafted by Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar.”
He said that the aim of this nationwide campaign is to protect constitutional values and democratic rights through peaceful protests inspired by the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi.
Congress’s big allegations against the Center
Referring to allegations made by opposition leader Rahul Gandhi, Panwar claimed that lakhs of citizens are being deprived of their franchise due to the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists. He alleged, “Crores of people are being deprived of their right to vote through a special intensive vetting process. The universal adult franchise envisioned by Dr BR Ambedkar after independence is in danger.”
The Congress leader also expressed concern over the recurring cases of examination paper leaks and alleged that they were putting the future of students at risk. He said, “NEET exam paper was leaked. Recently HPSC paper was also leaked. Such incidents are harming the future of students who deserve fair opportunities in education and employment.”
Panwar also criticized the Center on farmers’ issues, alleging that promises made regarding implementation of the Minimum Support Price (MSP) have not been fulfilled. He also claimed that farmers’ interests were being compromised in the context of international trade negotiations and alleged that agricultural concerns were being ignored.
The demonstration is part of a nationwide campaign
Highlighting the objective of the nationwide campaign, Panwar said the Rajiv Gandhi Panchayati Raj Organization has launched similar satyagraha in several states after members of the organization were allegedly detained during a protest in Delhi. He said, “After our protest at Jantar Mantar and our march towards the Election Commission of India, many of our workers were detained by the police. Then we resolved to organize Satyagraha across the country. Himachal Pradesh is the eighth state where this event is being held.”
Panwar stressed that the Congress will continue its agitation on the streets and inside the legislatures until, according to him, democratic values are protected. “We will continue this movement across the country. Our leaders will raise these issues both on the streets and inside Parliament and state assemblies,” he said.
Congress leaders reiterated their commitment to continue the nationwide protests on issues related to democracy, Constitution, electoral processes, farmers’ concerns and youth employment.
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