Finance
Mallikarjun Kharge has officially taken over as Congress president, becoming the party’s first non-Gandhi leader in 24 years.
Before taking over as Congress president on Wednesday, Kharge paid his respects to Mahatma Gandhi at the Rajghat and also visited the Samta Sthal and Shakti Sthal.
Rahul and Sonia Gandhi were present, as were other senior party leaders. Rahul Gandhi interrupted his Bharat Jodo Yatra to attend the Kharge takeover.
Addressing party workers as the chief for the first time, Kharge said, “It’s an emotional moment for me as the son of a labourer, a common Congress worker, has taken over as chief of the Congress party. I thank you all for this honour.”
“I started this journey in 1969 as a block committee chief today you have taken it such heights. It’s my privilege and pride to take forward the legacy of Congress, a party which has been guided by the likes of Mahatama Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru,” Kharge said.
“As president, it will be my utmost duty to look after our workers. Together, we will build an India that will be enlightened, empowered and equal for every citizen. We will uphold the Constitution of this country, respect everyone’s rights and give equal opportunities, defeat those who spread hate, and fight inflation, unemployment and hunger,” the party president added.
Speaking about the upcoming elections in Himachal Pradesh and Gujarat, Kharge said that people want change in these states. “We will have to show our party’s strength in these elections. If we all work hard and with dedication we will achieve success. We are the soldiers of Mahatma Gandhi, we are not scared of anyone. When a Congress worker will get rid of his fear, then even the biggest of kingdoms will be defeated.”
Congratulating Kharge, former president Sonia Gandhi said, “Congress presidency was a huge responsibility. I tried to discharge to my duties with sincerity.” She added. “I extend my heartiest congratulations to the newly elected president Mallikarjun Kharge. Change is the rule of the world… Congress had faced a lot of difficulties earlier as well. But I’m sure we will overcome the problems.”
Source:IE
