In a sharp political rebuttal, the Congress party has asserted that the Modi government is reaping the benefits of various developmental projects and reforms initiated during the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) era. According to Congress leaders, while the current government is receiving praise for implementing key initiatives, the original groundwork for many of these schemes was laid during the previous regime.
Speaking at a press conference, senior Congress spokespersons listed several major infrastructure and social sector projects that they claim were launched or planned under the UPA government. “From highways and metro projects to the Aadhaar scheme and health missions, these were not conceived overnight. The Modi government is simply continuing what we had already set in motion,” said a party representative.
The Congress further alleged that the BJP has been selectively highlighting completed projects without acknowledging the planning and approvals done during the UPA’s tenure. For instance, initiatives like the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor, Smart Cities Mission, and Digital India have roots in policies and proposals drafted between 2004 and 2014, they argued.
“They are taking credit for completion, not conception,” said a Congress leader. “Even in defence procurement and space exploration, several deals and missions were either signed or initiated under our watch.”
The party also pointed out that long-gestation infrastructure projects naturally span multiple governments, and any fair evaluation should consider the timeline of policy decisions and budget allocations. Congress called upon the media and public to scrutinize claims made by the BJP more critically and to recognize the continuity of governance.
In response, BJP leaders rejected these claims, saying that while the Congress may have initiated certain ideas, the Modi government was responsible for effective implementation. “It’s not just about launching a plan; execution, transparency, and delivery matter. The Modi government has ensured time-bound completion of long-pending works,” said a BJP spokesperson.
Analysts note that this debate reflects the ongoing political contest over legacy and credit. While both parties attempt to shape public perception in the run-up to elections, voters may look for performance over promises.
The Congress party maintains that it welcomes development, but insists on historical accuracy when it comes to giving credit. With elections approaching, the war of words is expected to continue, with both the BJP and Congress highlighting past records to appeal to the electorate.
