Lok Sabha verdict seen as victory of people and Indian democracy

Former Indian diplomat Venu Rajamony hails verdict at victory celebration by the Indian Overseas Congress, Washington DC chapter

Former Indian diplomat Venu Rajamony has described the verdict of the Lok Sabha elections in India as a clear demonstration of the people’s determination to protect the Constitution and democracy.

Rajamony, a former press secretary to the President of India. was speaking at the victory celebration organized by the Indian Overseas Congress, Washington DC chapter as chief guest on June 19, according to an IOC press release.

The verdict reflects the rejection of efforts to win votes in the name of religion and temple, he said. It highlights that issues of most concern to the public are the basic problems like poverty. unemployment, inflation and economic inequality.

The defeat of the BJP in Faizabad where Ram Temple is located and the decline in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s majority in Varanasi in contrast to the victory with a massive majority by opposition Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in Rae Bareli and Wayanad are noteworthy highlights.

Rajamony said India needs to stay focused on people’s welfare and sustainable, equitable development. This must be achieved in an atmosphere where civil liberties, freedom of expression, and secularism guaranteed by the Constitution is protected and strengthened.

Rajamony, who also served as a counselor, press, information, and culture in Washington, said the diaspora in the USA can make valuable contributions to strengthen the country and achieve this goal.

Indian Overseas Congress Washington DC Chapter President Johnson Myalil, presided over the meeting. Despite the BJP’s vast financial resources, misuse of investigative agencies and government machinery against the opposition, the people of India denied a simple majority to the BJP, and this is a significant victory for the Indian National Congress (INC) and the INDIA alliance, he stated.

The fact that the INC increased its seat tally by 100% is also a remarkable electoral achievement, Myalil added.

Indian Overseas Congress USA Secretary General Harbachan Singh, prominent philanthropist and community leader Dr. Frank Islam, Rohit Tripathi, Pratap Singh, Mohamed Tahir, George Manalel, Vikas Choudhary, and Nijo Abraham also spoke at the event.

IOC Chapter Secretary Vipin Raj welcomed the gathering, and Treasurer Vijay Narula proposed the vote of thanks.