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Gujarat chief minister Narendra Modi on Thursday led a blistering attack against the Congress-led government UPA government at the Centre for allegedly disturbing the federal structure and more importantly for the devaluation of major institutions.
Modi also criticised the government for the misuse of institutions such as Central Bureau of Investigations for political vendetta especially against the non Congress governments. He however, made a strong case for putting in place institutional mechanism, network and practices in a serious bid to strengthen the democracy, institutions and good governance in the country.
He called for a political intervention to strengthen the institutions and good governance and thereby increase people's participation. However, he strongly opposed political interference.
Modi was speaking after the release of a book titled "Beyond A Billion Ballots'' penned by BJP leader Vinay Saharasrabudhe here at the imposing hall at the Bombay Stock Exchange.
In his 40 minute highly spirited and interactive speech, amidt slogan shouting and thunderous applause from the audience, Modi lambasted the successive Congress led governments at the Centre for the misuse of Article 356 in the dissolution of governments especially led by opposition. Infact, he reminded that the Article 356 was meant for keeping the federal structural intact.
The Gujarat chief minister expressed serious concern over the growing mistrust among the citizens against the government and said it was highly dangerous for the democracy in particular. He took a swipe at the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who is not elected directly from the people but elected to the upper house and said due to such conditions the decision process has been either paralysed or the decisions are taken fearing the public outcry and adverse publicity in the press and media.
Modi also came down heavily on the role played by Congress president Sonia Gandhi led National Advisory Council for belittling the importance of the government. Important economic decisions are taken at the behest of National Advisory Council, he added.
Furthermore, the leading institution such as Planning Commission has been converted into a non entity.
He reiterated that the people of the country should have trust and faith in the elected government and those ruling should appear as servant and not owner.
