Kharge Criticizes Modi Government’s 11-Year Rule, Accuses BJP-RSS of Undermining Democracy and Economy

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday sharply criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government, accusing it of inflicting significant damage on India’s democracy, economy, and social harmony.

Kharge alleged that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its ideological affiliate, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), have systematically eroded constitutional institutions and weakened the federal structure of governance.

“In the past 11 years, the Modi government has dealt a severe blow to Indian democracy, the economy, and our social fabric. The BJP-RSS combine has undermined the independence of every constitutional institution. From manipulating public opinion and toppling democratically elected governments to consolidating power in a one-party rule, they have damaged the essence of democracy. The rights of states have been consistently ignored, and federalism has been severely compromised,” Kharge wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

His remarks came as the BJP celebrated 11 years in power at the Centre. Prime Minister Modi highlighted the government’s achievements, asserting that its focus has been on inclusive, people-centric development. “From economic growth to social upliftment, our efforts have been aimed at ensuring holistic progress. India is not only the fastest-growing major economy today but also a leading global voice on crucial issues like climate change and digital innovation,” Modi said.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah echoed the Prime Minister’s sentiments, calling the past 11 years a “golden period” of governance. “With Modi 3.0, New India is rapidly progressing towards development and self-reliance through reforms, performance, and transformation. This journey to make India the number one nation in every field will continue,” Shah stated.

However, Kharge countered this narrative, highlighting the rise of hate and fear in society. He pointed to the ongoing violence in Manipur and said, “Efforts are being made to spread an atmosphere of hatred, intimidation, and fear in society. The exploitation of Dalits, tribals, backward classes, minorities, and the underprivileged has intensified. There is a continuing effort to deprive them of their reservations and constitutional rights.”

On the economic front, Kharge criticized the government’s handling of the economy, accusing it of derailing growth. “The BJP-RSS has reduced the nation’s GDP growth rate to a sluggish 5–6%, compared to the 8% average during the UPA years. Instead of delivering on the promise of creating 2 crore jobs annually, this government has taken away jobs from millions of youth. Inflation has depleted public savings to their lowest level in 50 years, and economic inequality is now the highest it has been in a century,” he claimed.

Kharge also took a jab at several of the government’s flagship initiatives. “Make in India, Startup India, Stand-Up India, Digital India, Namami Gange, and the 100 Smart Cities mission have all fallen short of expectations. The railways are in a state of decline. This government is merely cutting ribbons on infrastructure projects that were painstakingly built by the Congress-UPA,” he added.