Congress Manifesto promises to ‘restore freedom and liberties’ in India

New Delhi: The manifesto of the Indian National Congress vows to prioritize the protection and restoration of fundamental freedoms and liberties, emphasizing the defense of the Constitution and the eradication of fear. It laments the erosion of democratic institutions and personal freedoms in recent years and pledges to rejuvenate India’s democratic ethos.

Central to the manifesto is the commitment to restore freedom of speech, expression, and the media, aiming to decriminalize defamation, ensure speedy civil remedies, and halt arbitrary internet suspensions. It promises a comprehensive review of laws hindering freedom of expression and privacy rights, with a pledge to repeal restrictive provisions.

Recognizing concerns over personal liberties, the manifesto pledges to refrain from interfering in personal choices, including food, attire, relationships, and residency. It vows to protect privacy rights, peaceful assembly, and the formation of associations.

In addressing internet freedom, the Congress promises legislation to safeguard online freedom and prevent unwarranted shutdowns. Additionally, it vows to establish a bail system where release is the norm in criminal cases.

A significant focus is directed towards revitalizing the media landscape. The manifesto pledges to defend independent journalism, enact laws protecting journalists from state coercion, and enhance media ownership transparency. It promises to amend laws hindering media freedom and tackle monopolistic practices.

Concerning law enforcement, the manifesto pledges to ensure agencies operate within legal bounds, ending misuse of power, arbitrary arrests, and custodial abuses. It promises thorough investigations into alleged scams and failures, aiming for accountability.

Institutional reforms are also highlighted, including restoring Parliament’s integrity, ensuring the independence of oversight bodies, and upholding constitutional principles in lawmaking. The manifesto rejects the idea of simultaneous elections, advocating for constitutional adherence and parliamentary traditions.

On electoral reforms, the Congress promises a dual-voting system for electronic and physical records, aiming for accuracy and verification. To address defections, it pledges to amend constitutional provisions, seeking to disqualify members switching parties.

Overall, the manifesto underscores the Congress’s commitment to restoring and safeguarding democratic values, personal freedoms, and institutional integrity in India.