From Our Special Correspondent
Daijiworld Media Network
Bengaluru, Aug 9: In a bid to counter Prime Minister Narendra Modi's oft-repeated slogan of achieving a "Congress-Mukht Bharat" (Congress-free India), KPCC Chief and Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has called upon Congress members to work towards ensuring a "BJP-Mukht Bharat" (BJP-free India).
Speaking at the 81st anniversary commemoration of Mahatma Gandhi's historic "Quit India" call to the nation to oust British rule, held at the Congress Bhavan in Bengaluru on Wednesday, Shivakumar emphasized that the time has come to rid the country of the communal and authoritarian grip of the BJP. He asserted that for India to progress as an egalitarian and inclusive nation, it must break free from the present regime.
"Eight decades after the Father of the Nation's call to the British to Quit India, it is now our responsibility to rise against the communal, dictatorial, and insensitive rule of the BJP," he proclaimed, highlighting the urgent need to safeguard the country.
Shivakumar stressed that the opposition alliance, INDIA, signifies the collective effort of party leaders, workers, and citizens to contribute to the nation's welfare and development, ensuring equal opportunities for all. "We must work together, setting aside our individual egos, for the betterment of society and the well-being of every citizen," he urged.
Recalling his prediction that the Congress party would secure 136 seats, a forecast met with skepticism, Shivakumar noted that his prediction had proven accurate. He attributed their success to the party's election campaign, which commenced from the historic Belagavi well used by freedom fighters and Mahatma Gandhi during his tenure as party president.
Looking ahead to the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, Shivakumar rallied party workers and leaders to unite and win over the hearts of those who had previously voted for the BJP and JD(S), aiming for a resounding victory. "We must overcome enmity, jealousy, and egos to serve the party. The government's welfare schemes benefit all sections of society, including BJP and JD(S) supporters. Our task is to earn their trust and votes," he asserted, setting sights on both the 2024 and 2028 elections.
Assuring that chairmanships and memberships of boards and corporations would be extended to those who had diligently served the party, Shivakumar emphasized that party members would receive priority, in accordance with AICC General Secretary and State in-charge Randeep Singh Surjewala's directive.
Addressing media inquiries at the party office, Shivakumar expressed a lack of concern over some contractors' meetings with BJP and JD(S) leaders. He maintained that individuals were entitled to meet whomever they pleased for support, guidance, and suggestions.
Regarding his exclusion from the Advocates Council function in Mysuru, Shivakumar expressed indifference, stating that it was their prerogative to extend invitations. He questioned the silence of BJP leader and former minister S Suresh Kumar, who had objected to his inclusion but remained silent when Yediyurappa was invited despite pending cases against him.
Shivakumar also attended the funeral of Kannada film actor Vijaya Raghavendra's wife, Spandana, attributing it to the will of a higher power. He offered his condolences to the grieving family.