In a spirited address during the Lok Sabha's Motion of Thanks on President's Address debate, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his unwavering confidence in the NDA securing more than 400 seats, with the BJP clenching at least 370 in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
Modi criticised the opposition, particularly the Congress, accusing them of lacking the courage to contest elections and opting for a prolonged stay on the opposition benches.
Modi confidently asserted, "I can gauge the mood of the nation; it will definitely give NDA more than 400 seats and the BJP at least 370 seats." He rallied BJP members, chanting the slogan "400 paar" in unison, emphasising his prediction for a resounding victory. Modi hinted at the impending elections, stating, "At the most, 100-125 days are remaining."
In a scathing critique of the opposition, Modi proclaimed, "I appreciate the resolution the opposition has taken. Every word of their speeches has confirmed my confidence and that of the country that they have resolved to stay there (in the opposition) for a long time."
He squarely blamed the Congress for the opposition's present condition, asserting that they had an opportunity to be an effective opposition but failed in that role.
The prime minister took a dig at opposition leaders, suggesting that some were considering changing parliamentary seats, while others contemplated a move to the Rajya Sabha. He sarcastically remarked, "The people will bless you and keep you there. You will achieve greater heights and will be soon seen in the public galleries (of the House)."
Modi criticised the opposition for squandering the opportunity presented during the Budget Session to provide constructive suggestions and a meaningful message to the people, especially in an election year. He accused the Congress of being responsible for the opposition's lackluster performance, saying, "Leaders have changed, but the same tune continues."
Highlighting the Congress's failure, Modi pointed out, "The Congress had a good opportunity to play a good opposition, but failed in that role. There are other young people in the opposition, but they were not allowed to speak out of fear that it may overshadow a particular person," likely referring to Rahul Gandhi.
The prime minister suggested that the Congress might soon have to "shut shop" due to its repeated attempts to launch the same political product. He admonished the party, saying, "It's election time, and you should have worked a bit harder, brought something new and sent a message to the people. However, you failed miserably. Let me teach you this very thing."
Criticising the opposition, Modi concluded, "The Congress party is responsible for the current condition of the opposition. The Congress got an opportunity to become a good opposition. However, they failed to fulfil their responsibility in the last ten years." The prime minister's remarks reflected his confidence in the BJP's electoral prospects and underscored the challenges facing the opposition, particularly the Congress, in redefining their role in the upcoming elections.
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