GUWAHATI: In a significant development, 26 progressive political parties belonging to the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (I.N.D.I.A) have come together under the banner of "Samuhik Sankalp" to protect the foundational principles of the Indian Constitution. These parties express deep concern over the systematic assault on India's democratic fabric by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
The leaders of these parties highlight the growing threat to the core pillars of the Indian Constitution, namely secular democracy, economic sovereignty, social justice, and federalism. They raise an alarm over the humanitarian crisis in Manipur and express shock at the silence of the Prime Minister in addressing the issue. Urgent steps are demanded to restore peace and foster reconciliation in Manipur.
The political alliance further emphasises its determination to counter ongoing attempts to undermine the Constitution and erode the constitutional rights of democratically elected state governments. The federal structure of the Indian polity is seen to be deliberately weakened, with concerns raised regarding the role of Governors and Lieutenant Governors in non-BJP-ruled states, which allegedly exceed constitutional norms.
Moreover, the misuse of government agencies against political opponents and the denial of legitimate needs and entitlements to non-BJP-ruled states by the central government are cited as challenges to the democratic fabric of the nation. The alliance also aims to address the pressing economic crisis, including rising prices of essential commodities and record unemployment, attributing it partly to the consequences of demonetisation on the MSME and unorganised sectors.
In a united front, the parties denounce the alleged reckless sale of national assets to favoured individuals and emphasise the need for a fair economy that fosters a robust public sector alongside a competitive private sector. The welfare of farmers and labourers in agriculture is emphasised as a top priority.
The alliance declares its commitment to combat hatred, violence, and discrimination against minorities, and to address rising crimes against women, Dalits, Adivasis, and Kashmiri Pandits. They demand fair representation and opportunities for socially, educationally, and economically backward communities, including the implementation of a Caste Census.
The parties voice their determination to resist the BJP's alleged systemic conspiracy to target, persecute, and suppress fellow Indians. They condemn the campaign of hate that has resulted in violent acts against those who oppose the ruling party and its divisive ideology. The attacks on constitutional rights and freedoms are seen as eroding the fundamental values upon which the Republic of India stands.
