- Jharkhand Congress chief calls ‘Belonging: A Journey of Love’ a reflection of India’s pluralism, constitutional principles and political ethics
Ranchi (Jharkhand): Jharkhand Pradesh Congress Committee president Keshav Mahto Kamlesh has described Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi’s book Belonging: A Journey of Love as an important account of love, belonging, sacrifice and democratic values, asserting that it goes beyond a conventional political memoir.
Kamlesh said the book portrays an extraordinary life journey and conveys that Indian identity is defined not by birthplace but by commitment to the country’s culture, diversity and constitutional principles.
2004 Decision Reflects Political Sacrifice
Highlighting Sonia Gandhi’s personal journey from Italy to India, Kamlesh said her decision to embrace Indian traditions and continue public responsibilities despite the tragic assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi reflected remarkable courage and resilience.
He particularly referred to the political developments of 2004, when Sonia Gandhi, despite having the opportunity to become Prime Minister following the United Progressive Alliance’s victory, chose Dr Manmohan Singh for the position. According to Kamlesh, the episode demonstrates the importance of principles and sacrifice over power and political positions.
Democracy Goes Beyond Elections
Kamlesh said the book offers important reflections on democracy, secularism, civil liberties and the independence of constitutional institutions. Referring to the ideological contributions of Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi, he said India’s strength lies in its pluralistic culture and equal respect for all religions, communities and languages.
Expressing concern over the contemporary political landscape, he highlighted questions concerning the impartiality of democratic institutions, credibility of the Election Commission, media freedom and judicial independence.
He asserted that democracy extends beyond elections to protecting citizens’ rights and respecting dissent through dialogue rather than fear or coercion. Kamlesh said the Congress would continue its struggle to safeguard the Constitution and promote social justice.
