Launching a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Monday said that while the PM Modi talks about Muslims, Mullahs, Mujra, and Mangalsutra, he remains silent on critical issues like inflation and the situation in Manipur. Tharoor emphasized that the Prime Minister should address these pressing concerns as they directly impact the lives of the people.
Along with the former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Bhagel, Tharoor addressed a press conference in Chandigarh.
Tharoor expressed his concern over the rising unemployment in the country, criticizing the government for focusing on temple construction instead of addressing this issue. He stressed that the government's primary role is to improve the lives of the people, not just build temples. Tharoor pointed out that no family has benefitted over the past ten years, and therefore, the public should be given three opportunities to assess the government's performance.
Addressing the issue of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), Tharoor stated that while they do not intend to disrespect the courts, the Election Commission should not tarnish its image. He questioned the delay in releasing election data and why it is kept hidden for extended periods.
Tharoor condemned the BJP's labeling of Punjab farmers as terrorists, asserting that protesting is their right. He mentioned that from the beginning of the coalition, it was stated that alliances would be formed differently in various states, and this approach has been applied in Punjab and Delhi. Tharoor praised coalition governments, noting that from 1991 to 2000, the country's economic condition was at its best, with coalition governments in power during this period.
Regarding the arrest of Arvind Kejriwal, Tharoor remarked that the charges against him over the past two years are baseless and called for an impartial investigation. He insisted that while any issue should be investigated fairly, targeting only Kejriwal is unjust.
Tharoor highlighted that trade with China has tripled, questioning whether this is not a matter of concern. He took a jab at the Prime Minister's "56-inch chest" remark, pointing out that nothing significant has been done regarding POK (Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir) over the past ten years. Tharoor criticized the Prime Minister's inactivity on this issue, which he believes is crucial for the nation's security and sovereignty.