Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on the Centre over the police action against protesters in Delhi, saying, "This is not how the 'Mother of Democracy' treats its children." His remarks came during a crucial meeting of the INDIA bloc at Parliament House, where opposition leaders discussed their strategy for the ongoing Parliament session.
Kharge alleged that the government's response to peaceful demonstrations reflected an intolerance towards dissent. Referring to the police crackdown, he accused the Centre of suppressing democratic voices instead of addressing the concerns raised by protesters.
Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi also strongly criticised the police action, calling it "disgusting" and accusing the Narendra Modi government of being hostile towards the country's youth. Sharing videos of the clashes on social media, Rahul claimed that those demanding accountability were being met with force instead of dialogue.
Several INDIA bloc leaders echoed similar concerns during the meeting. They condemned the use of police force against demonstrators and alleged that democratic institutions were being weakened. The opposition also discussed coordinating its strategy inside and outside Parliament on issues including the protest crackdown and other national matters.
The protests, led largely by youth groups, have intensified in recent days, with demonstrators demanding accountability over issues related to the education system and employment. Police had used barricades, batons and tear gas to stop protesters from marching towards Parliament, leading to injuries and widespread criticism from opposition parties and rights groups.
The Centre has defended the police action, maintaining that security measures were necessary to enforce restrictions and maintain public order in the national capital. Meanwhile, the opposition has vowed to continue raising the issue both in Parliament and through public campaigns, making it one of the key flashpoints of the current political session.
