Birsinghpur (MP), Sept 29: Congress president Sonia Gandhi today hit out at the Vajpayee government at the Centre for being “pseudo patriotic” and "responsible for rampant corruption and frequent threats to national security”. Alleging that NDA government's policies were “responsible for the plight of farmers, workers, youths, tribals and other weaker sections in the society, she asserted that Congress alone was capable of governing the country due to its commitment to social unity, far-sightedness and dedication”.
"Corruption is rampant under BJP-led government. It has leaders, indulging only in fulfilling their self-interests and they can never be regarded as true patriots," Gandhi said addressing a public meeting after laying the foundation stone for 500 MW thermal power plant here to be built at a cost of Rs 2066 crore.
In a scathing attack on the Centre, the Congress president alleged that the country's security was being threatened frequently under the government which makes tall claims about patriotism and good governance.
Stating that a 'Mahabharat' was on between BJP and Sangh Parivar organisations, Gandhi claimed that many people were dreaming of becoming the Prime Minister.

In her 16-minute speech, Gandhi said, "So far only `vikas purush' and `loh purush' were being projected in the country but after Rae Bareli special court's order on framing of charges in Ayodhya case, another `purush' has descended on the scene requiring a new nomenclature."
She claimed that the weaker sections in the society, including peasants, labour class and tribals have been "hit hard due to wrong policies of the Vajpayee government”.

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"Congress was proud of its history, its leaders' faith in social unity, farsightedness and dedicated service," Gandhi said adding the state has been marching ahead on the path of progress under the party's progressive leadership.

Commending the achievements made by Digvijay Singh government in Madhya Pradesh, she said the state has set an example for others by strengthening former Prime Minister and late Congress leader Rajiv Gandhi's dreams about Panchayati Raj.

The meeting was also addressed by Madhya Pradesh Congress committee president, Radhakishan Malviya and Energy Minister Bisahulal Singh.

Bureau Report