Sachin Pilot at ABP Summit: Strengthening democracy & inclusive growth

“BJP took birth after I was born. The Idea of India is greater than one statesman, one statement and one party. It is beyond one election.”, said Sachin Pilot, former Deputy Chief Minister of the Rajasthan Government and National General Secretary of the Indian National Congress (INC), at ABP Network’s Ideas of India 2025 in the session titled ‘A Place in the Sun - The Next Generation Politician’.  

On being Congress getting restricted under 100 seats, Sachin Pilot said, “We accept the election results but the way I see it we doubled our seats while BJP lost seats.” 

“Voting rights doesn’t make a democracy. Strengthening democratic institutions makes a democracy. The selection process for Election Commissioner of India included the roles of Prime Minister, Leader of Opposition and Chief Justice of India. Why has the Government removed the role of Chief Justice of India from the selection process and replaced with another Union Minister?” Sachin Pilot remarked.  

On being asked about his idea of India, Sachin Pilot said, “The world recognizes us and our diversity and accomplishments. India should emerge as an inclusive nation in the times to come.”

 “We are not ready to sleep over and allow arbitrary functioning of the Government. We encourage the people to ask hard questions to the Government on policy, programs, and implementation. We are for constructive criticism”, Sachin Pilot said voicing the duty of the opposition in a democracy. 

Responding to an observation of weakening coalition, Sachin Pilot reiterated, “I.N.D.I.A. coalition is as strong today as it was when it was formed.” He pointed out, “The NDA coalition has no common minimum program. Only one party drives the agenda.”

Sachin Pilot said, “In Haryana, Aam Aadmi Party fought all 90 seats. Congress party is a humble organization and we know how to advance coalition objectives by taking a backseat.”

 On being asked if Congress has become electorally Hindu, Sachin Pilot said, “It is unfortunate that few people’s communal statements are being painted as an entire picture. It is unfortunate that electoral seats are being calculated with a religious lens. In congress, we give seats to people who are dutiful and embodies congress values. We prefer the most eligible candidate for the betterment of people.”

 “India is becoming great not because of the Government or a party but because of its citizens.”, says Sachin Pilot while further adding “Media is not asking the questions on the right issues that it should ask. There’s no discussion on burning issues like the resignation of Manipur Chief Minister. The Government is doing headline management. Fringe is becoming a mainstream. It is our job to take up issues that are impact the people. Its government job to be accountable. The Government cannot remove the opposition.”

“The current Government does not want to engage with people, party, and ideas that are contrary or different from theirs.” Sachin Pilot said while further adding, “We should be empowering people with skillsets and jobs. The increasing divide between the rich and poor is a grave concern for India.”

ABP Network’s Ideas of India 2025, centred on the theme ‘Humanity’s Next Frontier’, will convene thought leaders and innovators to explore the challenges and opportunities in India’s ascendance in a rapidly changing world. In the face of climate change, geopolitical conflicts, and technological advancements such as AI, the summit delved into India’s role as both an ancient civilisation and a demographic powerhouse in shaping the future. The two-day summit brings together a confluence of ideas from global thought leaders, intellectuals, and change-makers, covering transformative possibilities in science, medicine, social contracts, and global leadership, with experts from diverse fields offering bold visions for a better, more sustainable world for all.

Also Read: Anurag Thakur and other Youth Icons at NDTV’s Yuva Conclave