Senior Congress leader P. Chidambaram promises repeal of CAA in bold electoral pledge
Senior Congress leader P. Chidambaram has stirred the political pot by declaring that the controversial Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) will be repealed in the very first session of Parliament if the INDIA Bloc secures power in the upcoming government formation. This bold statement came amidst criticism from Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and the Communist Party of India (Marxist), who have accused the Congress of failing to address the CAA in their manifesto.
Tensions Rise Over CAA Mention in Congress Manifesto
The manifesto omission has become a contentious issue, with critics like Vijayan lashing out repeatedly at the Congress for not committing to repeal the CAA on paper. Chidambaram, however, defended the exclusion by suggesting the document was already lengthy and reassured that the intent to repeal the act is unequivocal. As the chairman of the manifesto committee, Chidambaram emphasized that the decision to repeal, not just amend the CAA, reflects a deliberate stance against what he views as damaging policies enacted under the BJP’s decade-long rule.
Congress’ Strategic Counter to Criticism
In response to the CPI(M)’s critique and the ongoing political debate, Chidambaram highlighted the vocal opposition to the CAA by Congress members in Parliament, including Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor. He dismissed claims that Congress has been passive about the law. This assertion aims to solidify the Congress party’s position on national issues as they prepare for the electoral battle against the BJP, which has held a “brute majority” in Parliament over the past ten years.
Electoral Implications and National Perspective
Chidambaram also addressed the broader implications of the Ayodhya Ram temple on the elections, expressing hope that it would not influence the political landscape. His comments reflect a desire to shift focus from regional sentiments to national issues, criticizing the CPI(M) for approaching the national elections with a state-centric mindset. Chidambaram argues that from a national perspective, the Congress is better positioned to challenge the BJP and lead the government in Delhi, despite CPI(M)’s strong presence in Kerala.
The promise to repeal the CAA is a strategic move by the Congress to galvanize support among its base and appeal to wider national sentiments concerning secularism and civil rights. This stance not only differentiates the Congress from the BJP but also attempts to consolidate opposition efforts under the INDIA Bloc against the current ruling party. The outcome of this electoral promise could significantly influence voter behavior in the upcoming elections.