Congress leader and Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra delivered her maiden speech in the Lok Sabha on Friday during the discussion marking the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution of India.

Addressing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government, she raised concerns over issues such as crimes against women, Dalits, and minorities, while emphasizing the Constitution's pivotal role in instilling hope and justice among citizens.

Personal Story to Illustrate Hope and Resilience

Priyanka shared a poignant story of meeting two children, Adnan and Uzair, from a bereaved family in Sambhal. Their father, a tailor, was tragically killed by police. She recalled how the father had aspired for his sons to become a doctor and a successful professional.

Adnan, despite the tragedy, expressed his determination to fulfill his father's dream. Priyanka highlighted this as an example of the hope and justice instilled by the Indian Constitution.

Victory in Wayanad By-Elections

Priyanka’s entry into the Lok Sabha came after her recent victory in the Wayanad by-elections, necessitated by Rahul Gandhi’s shift to the Raebareli constituency. She won the seat by a commanding margin of 4 lakh votes, surpassing her brother’s earlier margin of 3.65 lakh votes in the same constituency.

Emphasis on the Constitution’s Democratic Spirit

Reflecting on India’s freedom struggle, Priyanka stated, “Our freedom movement was unique, built on the pillars of non-violence and truth, uniting farmers, laborers, intellectuals, and people of all castes, religions, and languages." She emphasized that the Constitution is not merely a document but a manifestation of the country’s collective voice born out of the independence movement.

She praised leaders like Rajagopalachari, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, and Jawaharlal Nehru, who spent years crafting the Constitution, calling it "a beacon of justice, hope, and expression" that empowers every Indian to demand their rights, hold governments accountable, and secure their rightful place in the nation’s resources and future.

Call to Uphold the Constitution’s Values

Priyanka underlined the Constitution’s role in enabling citizens to demand justice and ensuring that power bends before the people’s will. She asserted that the hope and strength derived from the Constitution remain visible in the aspirations of Indians across the country.

Her powerful debut in the Lok Sabha not only celebrated the Constitution’s legacy but also challenged the government to uphold the principles of justice, equality, and inclusivity enshrined in the nation’s foundational document.

**Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Criticizes Government for Undermining the Constitution's 'Safety Armour'**

Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, speaking in the Lok Sabha, described the **Indian Constitution** as a **'suraksha kavach' (safety armour)** that safeguards citizens' rights and ensures justice, unity, and freedom of expression.

"It is a 'kavach' that promises social, economic, and political justice to every citizen," Priyanka stated, emphasizing the Constitution's role in protecting the nation's democratic fabric.

### **Sharp Criticism of the Ruling Party**

Priyanka accused the ruling government of attempting to dismantle this "safety armour" over the past decade. "Colleagues from the ruling side, who often make tall claims, have actively worked to weaken this 'kavach'. Efforts to undermine the Constitution’s promises of justice are evident," she said.

### **Concerns Over Reservation and Privatization**

Highlighting specific concerns, Priyanka criticized the government’s policies, including **lateral entry into public services and privatization**, which she claimed are **weakening the reservation system** and diluting opportunities meant for marginalized communities.

### **Call to Uphold Constitutional Values**

Priyanka’s remarks served as a reminder of the Constitution’s role as a protector of citizens’ rights and a call to resist policies that, according to her, undermine its principles. "Breaking this 'kavach' is not just an attack on the Constitution but on the very idea of justice and equality," she concluded.

"Today, people of the country are demanding that there be a Caste Census. Colleague of the ruling side mentioned this, the mention is also being made only because of these results in the Lok Sabha elections. The Caste Census is essential so that we know the condition of everyone and policies can be made accordingly...", he said.