"Matter of pride and responsibility": Mallikarjun Kharge expresses gratitude after oath as Rajya Sabha Member, pledges strong opposition coordination
New Delhi, June 29
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday expressed gratitude and reaffirmed his commitment to continue serving in the Rajya Sabha as Leader of the Opposition after taking oath as a Member of the Council of States once again.
The oath of office to Kharge was administered in the Rajya Sabha Chairman's chamber by Vice President C P Radhakrishnan.
Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra were present during the ceremony.
In a post on X, Kharge described his reappointment to the Upper House and continuation as Leader of the Opposition as a matter of "immense pride and responsibility," while acknowledging the support extended by constitutional authorities, party leadership, and political colleagues.
Reflecting on his oath-taking and continued role in the Upper House, Kharge wrote, "I had the privilege of taking the oath of office as a Member of the Council of States, again. It is a matter of immense pride and responsibility to continue serving this august Upper House as the Leader of the Opposition."
Expressing gratitude to the presiding officers of the Rajya Sabha, the Congress president acknowledged their support in the functioning of the House.
He said, "I extend my sincere gratitude to the Hon'ble Vice President of India and Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, and to the Hon'ble Deputy Chairman, Shri Harivansh, for their continued support."
Thanking the party leadership and colleagues for their trust and encouragement, Kharge credited Congress leadership and party workers for sustaining him through his long political journey.
"I also express my heartfelt gratitude to the leadership of the Indian National Congress, especially the CPP Chairperson, Smt. Sonia Gandhi and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Shri Rahul Gandhi, my fellow colleagues & MPs in the Congress Party, and to the countless party workers and supporters whose unwavering faith and encouragement have sustained me throughout my long journey in public life and Parliamentary service," he said.
"I am equally grateful to the Floor Leaders of all political parties, especially our colleagues in the INDIA bloc, and the wider Opposition, for their cooperation and camaraderie. I look forward to even stronger coordination during the forthcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament so that, together, we can make the government of the day more accountable," he added.
Reiterating his commitment to parliamentary responsibility, Kharge said the Opposition would continue to raise public concerns with determination and sincerity.
"We will continue to raise the burning concerns, aspirations and voices of the people with sincerity, conviction and determination. That remains our foremost responsibility, and I shall discharge it with the utmost commitment," he said.
— ANI
Reader Comments
While I respect his long service, I wonder if Congress is just recycling old faces instead of giving younger leaders a chance. The party needs fresh energy in the Rajya Sabha too. But well, congratulations to Kharge ji on his reappointment.
Good to see bipartisan appreciation in his statement. The INDIA bloc needs more coordination if they want to challenge the ruling party effectively. Let's see if the Monsoon Session actually sees some strong opposition or just more walkouts.
🎉 A well-deserved reappointment! Kharge sahab has been a consistent voice for the common man. His mention of "burning concerns of the people" gives hope that issues like rising prices and farmer distress will be raised strongly in Parliament.
Let's see if this actually translates to action. We've heard similar statements before but the opposition has been weak during key debates. Hopefully, with Kharge ji's experience, we'll see more coordinated and effective opposition in the coming sessions.
His humble tone in expressing gratitude to everyone from Sonia Gandhi to party workers shows his grounded nature. But the real test will be whether the Opposition can actually force the government to answer questions on pressing issues like Manipur violence and unemployment.
A Ananya R