Launching scathing attacks on its main rival the BJP, the distraught Congress chief Sonia Gandhi made a fervent appeal to ‘preserve and protect Indianness’ through a televised advertising campaign. ‘BJP’s ideas are autocratic and divisive,’ she said, ‘while the Congress stands for unity.’ 

 

Indicating BJP’s disregard for plurality of Indian nation, she said, ‘we want unity while they want to impose uniformity.’ They say 'just believe in me'. We are fighting this election for a future where power is not the preserve of a select few, but exercised by many," she said.

 

"Their (BJP's) vision is laced with hatred and deceit, their principles are conflict-ridden and repressive," Sonia added.

 

"Today, our nation stands at a junction. The Congress beliefs and ideology will lead us towards a vigorous, free democracy, open to the life of change and transformation," Sonia said in her appeal. The Congress is battling one of its sturdiest battles after retaining power for a decade that has resulted in anti-incumbency, forcing the party to fight with its back to the wall.

 

Appealing people to ‘think from their heart’, the Congress chief appealed the people to reject the ‘communal’ and ‘divisive’ BJP. Praising Congress secular ideology, Sonia said, "This has been the bedrock of our progress. This is the essence of our Bharatiyata, our Hindustaniyat". Discarding BJP's strategy, she said the Congress approach was, "Believe in our intentions, in our achievements: a high rate of growth, inclusive development, strong democratic institutions."