In a powerful demonstration of unity and resolve, MPs from the INDIA bloc gathered in the Parliament complex on Monday, marking the commencement of the first session of the 18th Lok Sabha. The opposition leaders, led by prominent figures such as Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, party leader Rahul Gandhi, Trinamool Congress’ Sudip Bandyopadhyay, and DMK’s TR Baalu, assembled at the historic location where the statue of Mahatma Gandhi once stood, each holding a copy of the Indian Constitution.
Among the gathering was former Congress president Sonia Gandhi, lending her presence to a symbolic protest aimed at defending democratic principles. The leaders raised spirited slogans, proclaiming “long live Constitution”, “we will save Constitution”, and “save our democracy”. Rahul Gandhi, addressing the media, underscored the purpose of their demonstration. “We are here to protect the Constitution from being attacked by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. This attack is not acceptable to us, and that is why we held the Constitution and took an oath. Our message is reaching the public, and no power can touch the Constitution of India—we will protect it,” he asserted.
The leaders’ commitment to safeguarding democratic values was further echoed by Congress leader KC Venugopal. He emphasized that the INDIA alliance, stepping into the 18th Lok Sabha session, was fortified with the blessings of Mahatma Gandhi. “The INDIA alliance enters the 18th Lok Sabha with Bapu’s blessings and with a fresh resolve to give voice to people’s issues, challenges, hopes, and aspirations in Parliament. We will keep the government in check every single minute,” Venugopal declared in a post on X.
This collective act of holding copies of the Constitution while pledging to uphold democratic norms is seen as a robust stance against perceived threats to India’s democratic fabric. The opposition’s rallying cry for the protection of constitutional values is not just a political statement, but a reaffirmation of their commitment to the principles upon which India was founded.
As the 18th Lok Sabha session unfolds, the actions and strategies of the INDIA bloc will be closely watched. Their unified front on the first day is a clear signal of their determination to challenge and hold the government accountable, ensuring that the voices of the people are heard and respected within the halls of Parliament.
