Kharge’s Baseless Criticism of Modi's Pension Scheme: Congress’s Desperate Distraction

 

The recent criticism by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge against the Modi government's Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) is not only misleading but also a desperate attempt to undermine the significant strides made by the current administration in contrast to the Congress-led UPA government.

 

Kharge's statement, claiming that the "U" in UPS stands for "U-turns," is an oversimplification that ignores the complexities of governance and the evolving needs of the Indian populace.

 

The Modi government has demonstrated time and again that it is willing to make necessary adjustments for the greater good, unlike the Congress, which remained stagnant during its tenure, often prioritising political gains over national interest.

 

 

Under the UPA regime, India witnessed a period of policy paralysis, marked by corruption scandals and a lack of decisive leadership. The Congress-led government failed to address the pressing needs of the people, leading to widespread disillusionment.

 

In contrast, the Modi government has brought about transformative changes, focusing on development, accountability, and the welfare of the common man.

 

The Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) is a testament to this commitment. Unlike the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) favoured by non-BJP states, which is fiscally unsustainable and burdens the exchequer, the UPS offers a balanced approach.

 

It guarantees a pension of 50% of the last drawn salary for government employees, ensuring financial security without jeopardising the nation's economic stability.

 

The inclusion of a minimum pension of Rs 10,000 and inflation protection further highlights the government's dedication to the welfare of its citizens.

 

 

Kharge's accusations regarding the rollback of policies such as the Long-Term Capital Gain/Indexation, the Waqf Bill, and the Broadcast Bill are presented as signs of weakness.

 

However, they are, in reality, examples of a government that listens to the people and is willing to adapt. Unlike the Congress, which often ignored public sentiment, the Modi government has shown that it values feedback and is not afraid to reconsider its stance when necessary.

 

Moreover, Kharge's attempt to paint these actions as "U-turns" conveniently overlooks the Congress's own history of indecision and flip-flopping on critical issues. The UPA government, for instance, struggled with policy implementation and was often mired in controversies that stalled progress.

 

The Modi government, on the other hand, has made swift and decisive moves, such as the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and the abrogation of Article 370, which have had far-reaching positive impacts.

 

 

The leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been a game-changer for India. His government’s focus on "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas" has resulted in inclusive growth, benefiting all sections of society.

 

From launching the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, which has brought millions into the formal banking system, to the Ayushman Bharat scheme, which provides health insurance to the underprivileged, Modi’s policies have touched the lives of millions.

 

In contrast, the Congress’s tenure was marked by scandals such as the 2G spectrum case and the coal block allocation scam, which not only tarnished India’s image globally but also hampered economic growth. The Modi government, in its two terms, has maintained a clean record, focusing on transparency and efficiency.

 

 

Kharge’s criticism of the Modi government’s Unified Pension Scheme is nothing more than a politically motivated attempt to distract from the Congress party’s own failures. The Modi government’s track record speaks for itself—India is on a path of progress and prosperity, something that was merely a dream during the Congress-led UPA era.

 

The Unified Pension Scheme is yet another example of the Modi government's commitment to the welfare of the people, and it stands in stark contrast to the Congress’s legacy of inaction and inefficiency.

 

As we move forward, it is essential to recognize the tangible benefits brought about by the Modi government and to reject the baseless accusations made by a party that has repeatedly failed to deliver on its promises.