PM Modi Criticizes Opposition's 'Love Shop' Narrative in Rajya Sabha Speech
Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a pointed critique against opposition parties during his motion of thanks address in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday. The Prime Minister specifically targeted the phrase "Mohabbat ki dukaan" (shop of love), a slogan frequently employed by Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, accusing the opposition of using such rhetoric to conceal what he described as underlying hostility and divisive agendas.
Accusations of Hidden Hatred Behind Slogans
In his parliamentary address, PM Modi questioned the sincerity behind the opposition's proclaimed messages of affection. "They are moving with the mantra of 'Modi teri kabr khudegi'. They dream of this and speak of democracy. They put up signboards of 'Mohabbat ki dukan'. Is such hatred harboured in public life?" the Prime Minister stated. However, it should be noted that he did not present specific evidence of opposition members chanting the mentioned slogan during parliamentary proceedings.
Contrasting Governance Models
The Prime Minister drew a sharp distinction between his administration's approach and that of previous governments. He asserted that unlike past regimes that he claimed were controlled by external influences or remote mechanisms, his authority derives directly from the democratic mandate of India's 140 crore citizens. "Their government used to operate with a remote. My government operated with a remote too. 140 crore people are my remote," Modi emphasized, highlighting his perception of a more direct and people-centric governance model.
Allegations of Institutional Weakening and Security Compromises
Continuing his critique, PM Modi blamed opposition parties for what he described as weakening vital national institutions and prioritizing political survival over effective governance. He accused them of advancing agendas that compromise national security and erode public trust. The Prime Minister specifically alleged that opposition policies have shielded illegal infiltrators while neglecting the aspirations of Indian youth and the country's long-term strategic interests.
Focus on Correcting Past Mistakes and Future-Ready Policies
Modi detailed the challenges his administration has faced in addressing what he characterized as legacy issues from previous governments. "A significant part of our energy is being spent on correcting the mistakes of the past. It takes great effort to erase the image that was created in the minds of the world during that period, they left things in such a damaged state," he remarked. The Prime Minister emphasized his government's commitment to forward-looking policies, stating that India is now governed through strategic planning and policy-driven approaches that have enhanced global trust in the nation.
He credited the "reform, perform, transform" mantra with propelling national progress, declaring that "the reality today is that the nation has boarded the Reform Express." This parliamentary address followed the cancellation of his scheduled Lok Sabha speech the previous day, which was disrupted by opposition protests within the parliamentary chamber.
