Kharge slams BJP for appropriating Patel’s legacy

Ira Singh
Khabar Khabaron Ki,09 April’25

The Indian National Congress commenced its 84th National Convention of the All India Congress Committee (AICC) on Tuesady in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The two-day event, being held on April 8–9, is centered on the themes of “Justice, Resolution, Dedication, and Struggle.” .” The visit, which began with the arrival of top Congress leadership from across the country, is aimed at re-energising the party’s cadre base and realigning its strategies in the run-up to forthcoming political challenges. The convention also symbolises a historic return, as Ahmedabad hosts the 84th All India Congress Committee (AICC) National Convention after a gap of 64 years.

Accusing the BJP-RSS of carrying out a “well-planned conspiracy” against national heroes, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Tuesday asserted that Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s ideology was contrary to the RSS’ ideas and said it is laughable that today that organisation which “has no contribution” in the freedom struggle claims his legacy. In his opening address at the Extended Congress Working Committee meeting, Kharge also said that today, attention is being diverted from the basic issues of the country by indulging in communal division. “On the other hand, oligarchic monopoly is on the path of controlling the government by capturing the resources of the country,” he said.

From Jharkhand, a robust delegation of 60 leaders — including 54 AICC members and 6 specially invited delegates are participating in the convention. The delegation comprises prominent faces such as State Congress President Keshav Mahto Kamlesh, former Union Minister Subodh Kant Sahay, senior leaders Alamgir Alam, Rajesh Thakur, Deepika Pandey Singh, Bandhu Tirkey, Dr Ajoy Kumar, Gaurav Vallabh, and Satyendra Singh. Speaking to the media ahead of his departure to Gujarat, Jharkhand Congress President Keshav Mahto Kamlesh expressed optimism about the outcomes of the meet. “This convention will be a milestone in rejuvenating our organisational strength. It is our collective responsibility to carry forward the spirit of the resolutions adopted here,” he said.

Jharkhand Congress Media Department Chairman Satish Paul Munjini highlighted the importance of the event. He stated that the Congress is committed to protecting constitutional values and raising public welfare issues across the country. He added that the message coming from Gujarat — the home of Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel — would help give new direction to the nation’s political journey.