Demonstrations were organised by the Congress party across Rajasthan to protest the suspension of MPs. Responding to the call from the Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee, demonstrations took place at all district headquarters. The Martyrs’ Memorial in the capital witnessed a fervent gathering of Congress leaders who strongly criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Modi-led central government. The opposition MPs had sought a statement in Parliament concerning a security lapse, but instead of addressing the issue, the decision to suspend them was deemed contrary to democratic principles. In response, opposition parties are compelled to engage in protests under the banner of Save Democracy Day.
Govind Singh Dotasra, the Pradesh Congress Committee president, emphasised that elected representatives were suspended to avoid accountability regarding the security of Parliament. The opposition MPs sought information about the security lapse and the measures the ruling BJP-led central government was taking to prevent future lapses. Dotasra expressed disappointment over the behaviour of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha Speakers from Rajasthan, who, despite initially receiving a warm welcome from the Congress, now act against democratic principles.
Dotasra commented on the so-called “Gujarat model” and its negative impact on the country. He criticised the divisive tactics of pitting communities against each other for political gain. According to Dotasra, the government resorts to ousting those who express dissenting opinions in the assembly or parliament, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a dictatorship.
He lamented the misuse of constitutional institutions to take action against individuals based on their political affiliations, citing examples of income tax and ED actions against traders supporting other parties.
Dotasra highlighted the global concern about the erosion of democratic values in the world’s strongest democracy. He criticised the ruling party for suspending MPs and passing bills without engaging in meaningful discussions with the opposition.
The lack of transparency in these bills raised concerns, and Dotasra argued that the suspension of 148 MPs over minor issues was an autocratic move. Removing elected representatives from the highest temple of democracy, according to him, is a matter of great shame.
