The Congress party has made it clear that it does not want to be involved in any controversy regarding Sanatan Dharma. During the Congress Working Committee meeting, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge stated that the party does not want to be drawn into any controversy on this matter. P Chidambaram, a CWC member, also emphasized that the Congress believes in equal respect for all religions and has held this position for many decades.
Chidambaram was asked about the controversy surrounding the remarks made by DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin. He explained that the DMK is not opposed to any religion but rather opposes caste oppression and hierarchy. The mention of Sanatan Dharma by the DMK was in the context of addressing these issues.
Chidambaram also criticized the idea of “one nation one election,” calling it an assault on the Constitution and an attack on federalism. He stated that the BJP knows it does not have enough support to pass the necessary constitutional amendments for this idea. He believes that the proposal is a distraction from more important issues.
Regarding the upcoming special session of Parliament, Chidambaram mentioned that Sonia Gandhi, the chairperson of the Congress Parliamentary Party, has written a letter to the Prime Minister listing nine items for discussion. He expressed disappointment that they have not received a reply yet. Chidambaram emphasized that if these issues are included in the session’s agenda, the Congress will happily participate in the debate.
Chidambaram also mentioned that every member who spoke at the CWC meeting expressed support for the INDIA alliance and suggested strengthening it. He dismissed the proposal to change India’s name to Bharat as a “fake controversy,” stating that the Constitution makers were wiser than anyone living today and they referred to India as Bharat.
