Sharad Pawar: Rights of Citizens Enshrined in Constitution Under Attack
The Nationalist Congress Party chief, Sharad Pawar, has raised concerns over the attacks on the rights of citizens that are enshrined in the Constitution, emphasizing the need to protect the democratic fabric of the nation. Speaking at an ‘Elgar Parishad’ gathering in Maharashtra’s Thane district, Pawar criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent remarks in Parliament as superficial and trivial. He also expressed his dismay at the attacks on India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, and the principal architect of the Constitution, Babasaheb Ambedkar.
Pawar highlighted that the assault on these individuals goes beyond personal criticisms. Instead, it represents a broader attack on the foundational principles and values established by these respected figures. He accused Modi and his colleagues of attempting to undermine the Constitution bestowed by Babasaheb in their pursuit of weakening its significance.
The veteran politician urged citizens to remain vigilant and resolute in their defense of the Constitution against encroachments by those in power. He stressed the collective responsibility to uphold the principles of democracy and the rights of every citizen.
Pawar credited Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s foresight for shaping the trajectory of the country, acknowledging his contributions to environmental conservation. He highlighted that without the fundamental rights laid down by Babasaheb, the nation may have faced a situation similar to that currently witnessed in neighboring countries such as Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. Therefore, he emphasized the need to conserve the Constitution, which guarantees these fundamental rights.
During his speech, Pawar also condemned the increasing assaults on farmers and marginalized communities. He cautioned against the perils of privatization in the education sector and highlighted the misuse of power to stifle voices, citing the recent attack on journalist Nikhil Wagle allegedly by BJP workers in Pune.
As concerns rise over the erosion of constitutional rights, Pawar’s words serve as a reminder of the importance of defending the principles established by the founding fathers of the nation. The call to action resonates not only with the citizens of India but also with a global audience that values democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. The message is clear: the Constitution must be protected, and the rights of citizens must be upheld to prevent a deterioration similar to what is occurring in other parts of the world.
