Special Correspondent
Patna: The Aam Aadmi Party has accused the Congress for not taking active part in thwarting the effects of the black ordinance which the party calls the ordinance against the Delhi Government. The discussion came up during the three day opposition conclave where 15 national and regional parties are taking part in Patna under the leadership of Chief Minister of Bihar Nithish Kumar.
The Black Ordinance not only seeks to deprive an elected government in Delhi of its democratic rights but also poses a significant threat to the democratic principles and Constitutional values of India. If unopposed, this dangerous trend could potentially spread to other states, resulting in the erosion of power from democratically elected state governments. It is imperative to defeat this detrimental Black Ordinance.
A gathering of like-minded parties is taking place in Patna, with a total of 15 parties in attendance, out of which 12 hold representation in the Rajya Sabha. With the exception of the Indian National Congress, all other 11 parties represented in the Rajya Sabha have clearly stated their opposition to the Black Ordinance and have announced their intent to oppose it in the Rajya Sabha.
The Congress, being a national party that takes a stand on various issues, has yet to disclose its position on the Black Ordinance. However, the Congress units in Delhi and Punjab have expressed their support for the Modi government on this matter.
During the like-minded party meeting in Patna today, many parties urged the Congress to publicly condemn the Black Ordinance. However, the Congress declined to do so.
The silence of the Congress raises doubts about its true intentions. Senior Congress leaders have hinted in private discussions that their party may choose to informally or formally abstain from voting on the Black Ordinance in the Rajya Sabha. The Congress’ abstention from voting on this critical issue would greatly benefit the BJP in its assault on Indian democracy.
The Black Ordinance is not only unconstitutional, but it also undermines the principles of federalism and democracy. Moreover, it seeks to overturn the honorable Supreme Court’s judgment on the matter, thereby disrespecting the judiciary. The hesitation and refusal of the Congress to act in solidarity, particularly on such a significant issue, would make it challenging for the AAP to participate in any alliance that includes the Congress. Until the Congress publicly condemns the Black Ordinance and declares that all 31 of its Rajya Sabha MPs will oppose the ordinance, it will be difficult for the AAP to engage in future meetings with like-minded parties where the Congress is involved.
It is high time for the Congress to decide whether it stands with the people of Delhi or with the Modi Government.