THE RISE OF THE ANDOLANJEEVI: PROTESTING FOR POWER, NOT PRINCIPLES

In a strong and healthy democracy, protests by the opposition on serious issues concerning the nation are always considered legitimate.

- RAKESH SHARMA

Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi other MPs protest at the Parliament premises in New Delhi (File photo)

They serve as an essential mechanism to restrain arbitrary governance and to maintain democratic balance.However, it was precisely for those leaders and political parties who remain perpetually agitating on issues either imported from abroad or artificially manufactured within the country—solely to capture the throne of power—that our Prime Minister coined the term “Andolanjeevi” in Parliament. Through this expression, he cautioned the nation against such power-hungry elements.

After being repeatedly removed from power by the people and failing in every attempt to return to office, these leaders and parties—gripped by frustration, despair, and disillusionment—have now chosen the path of issue-less protests. Having been rejected time and again by the electorate, they have developed the misconception that destabilising the country's progress and development, inciting violence, creating anarchy, and repeatedly disrupting Parliament will somehow pave their way back to power.

For such leaders and parties, the saying aptly applies: "When the mother-in-law asks the daughter-in-law why she sways even while kneading dough."

—highlighting baseless complaints born out of sheer habit.