Kharge Vows to Safeguard India's Constitution on Sadhbhavana Diwas

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge emphasized the importance of protecting the Constitution during a speech in Mumbai on Sadhbhavana Diwas, also marking former PM Rajiv Gandhi's birth anniversary. Kharge criticized the Modi government's lateral entry policy, which was later withdrawn amid public and political pressure.

Indian National Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge reaffirmed the party's commitment to safeguarding the Constitution on the occasion of 'Sadhbhavana Diwas' on Tuesday. Speaking at a public gathering in Mumbai marking the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, Kharge stated, "Saving the Constitution is still our top priority."

Underscoring the role of state governments and elected representatives, Kharge mentioned, "To save the Constitution, we need MLAs and state governments. A majority in states and the Rajya Sabha will prevent any changes to the Constitution. Without elected MLAs in states, we cannot ensure representation in the Rajya Sabha."

Kharge also took aim at the Modi-led government's controversial advertisement for lateral entry into government posts, which was subsequently withdrawn following criticism. The advertisement aimed to recruit private sector individuals into high-ranking roles, a move opposed by various groups. Kharge credited the withdrawal to Congress's and public pressure, stating, "The Modi government retracted the decision because of strong opposition. Had the government been in majority, it would have filled these posts with RSS personnel without reservations."

Recently, the UPSC issued a notification for recruiting Joint Secretaries, Directors, and Deputy Secretaries through lateral entry. Amid criticism, the Department of Personnel and Training asked UPSC to cancel the advertisement. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)