Union minister Nitin Gadkari pitched for a stronger Congress party, pointing out that strong opposition is a need for democracy.
Speaking at a recent event, the minister said, "Democracy runs on two wheels - the ruling dispensation and the opposition. A strong opposition is a need for democracy. Hence it is my sincere wish that the Congress party should become stronger."
"It is not good for democracy that other regional parties take the space of Congress," he pointed out.
"Jawaharlal Nehru is an example. When Atal Bihari Vajpayee lost the Lok Sabha election, Jawaharlal Nehru still gave him respect. So, in a democracy, the opposition's role is very important," Indian Express quoted him as saying.
He said he wishes that the Congress remains strong, and added, "Those who follow the Congress ideology should remain in the party and stick to their convictions. They must continue to work and not despair over defeat.”
Maharashtra Congress leader Sachin Sawant reminded the BJP leader of his party's attempts to destroy the opposition even as he welcomed Gadkari's remarks.
“We appreciate whatever concern Gadkari ji has shown. But he should also speak to his leader Modi ji about the BJP's efforts to destroy opposition parties and democracy by taking charge of central probe agencies,” Sawant said.
It will be in the interest of democracy and the country if he (Gadkari) talks to Modi ji on the mindset of the BJP to destroy the opposition party and the attempt to convert democracy into dictatorship, the Congress leader said.
