Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 23 December 2023
The Andaman & Nicobar Territorial Congress Committee (ANTCC) made a resolute stance on 22nd December 2023 against the suspension of 146 Members of Parliament from the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. Branding it as a threat to India’s political democracy, ANTCC rallied under the leadership of President Mr. Rangalal Halder and Campaign Committee Chairman Mr. TSG Bhasker.
Initiating from the Congress Office in Port Blair, the protest unfolded as a robust rally, culminating at the Gandhi Statue. ANTCC leaders used the platform to vehemently oppose what they see as the Bharatiya Janata Party’s continuous efforts to dismantle the democratic framework in the nation. The suspension of opposition MPs not only drew widespread criticism for its severity but also sparked concerns about its impact on democratic discourse globally.
Amidst a sea of banners and placards, party leaders raised their voices in unison against what they perceive as an assault on democracy by the Modi-led BJP government.
Addressing the gathering were Mr. Rangalal Halder, Mr. TSG Bhasker, Senior Congress Leader Mr. Hamid Ali, Mahila Coordinator South Andaman Mrs. Zubaida Begum, Zilla Parishad Member Ms. Mariyam Bibi, and NSUI State President Mr. M.A Sajid. The protest witnessed the participation of leaders from various Frontal Organisations, ANTCC Departments & Cells, PBMC Councillors, PRI Members, Senior Congress Leaders, and passionate party workers.
The emphasis of the protest extended beyond mere condemnation, highlighting the criticality of maintaining equal parliamentary representation and preserving the essence of democratic principles.
The ANTCC’s unified stand serves as a vocal opposition against what they perceive as an existential threat to the democratic fabric of the country, amplifying their call for the reinstatement of the suspended MPs and the safeguarding of democratic values.