Invoking the Emergency and the imposition of President’s Rule in several states, BJP national president Nitin Nabin accused the Congress of undermining constitutional principles while in power. His remarks at the party’s Jharkhand executive meeting brought the debate over democratic institutions, electoral integrity, and political accountability into sharp focus.

Constitution and Democracy at the Centre of Debate

Addressing party leaders and workers in Ranchi on his second day, October 24, a day after his arrival late evening on October 23, during a three-day visit to Jharkhand, Nabin alleged that the Congress had governed according to its own preferences rather than constitutional principles. He cited the Emergency and the imposition of President’s Rule in several states as examples of what he described as the party’s disregard for democratic norms.

He accused Congress leaders of questioning constitutional institutions selectively, arguing that they had not raised similar concerns when their party was in government. Nabin also alleged that the Opposition was attempting to create political instability, with support from forces within and outside India.

Electoral Integrity and the Bihar SIR Debate

Turning to Bihar’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, Nabin claimed that Congress workers had filed no claims or objections during the 60-day period provided after publication of the revised rolls. He challenged the party’s allegations of “vote theft” and criticised Rahul Gandhi for raising the issue.

These assertions formed part of the BJP leader’s political argument; the claims and counterclaims surrounding electoral revision remain matters for scrutiny through established democratic and legal processes.

A Message to the Jharkhand BJP

Nabin’s address marked his first speech at the state executive committee meeting following the BJP’s organisational restructuring in Jharkhand. He urged party workers to strengthen the organisation and challenge the state government over alleged corruption, law-and-order concerns and irregularities in recruitment examinations. He also invoked the legacy of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, under whose government Jharkhand was created.

The Message: Constitutional Accountability Must Be Universal

Political criticism is integral to democracy, but the Constitution demands more than rhetoric from any party. Its principles must guide those in power and those seeking power alike. The enduring test of democratic leadership lies in respecting institutions, protecting electoral integrity, accepting scrutiny and ensuring that public interest remains above partisan advantage.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/congress-never-followed-the-constitution-ruled-country-as-per-its-wishes-nitin-nabin/article71620032.ece