Sonia Gandhi on no-confidence motion: ‘Who says we don’t have the numbers?’

Replying to a question on the lack of the numbers to win the no-confidence motion against the Narendra Modi government in the parliament, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi shot back, “Who says we don’t have the numbers?”

Sonia was talking to an English news channel.

On the first day of the Monsson session of the parliament - in the backdrop of heightened political battle between Modi government and the Opposition, Sonia’s response assumes significance as the Opposition is trying hard to gather the number.

Important to recall, fifteen years ago, in 2003, as leader of Opposition, Sonia Gandhi had moved a no-confidence motion against then BJP-led government, but it was defeated by a mile.

Banking upon exceptions and anti-government feelings, opposition parties are hoping to get support from unexpected corners such as Biju Janta Dal (BJD), which had distanced itself from the BJP but has not decided on whether it will vote or abstain.

Analysts feel Sonia Gandhi’s comment will certainly help the opposition to gather numbers. However, the government will easily prove the majority.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ananth Kumar had already said the government will win the motion it as it enjoys a two-third majority in the Lok Sabha. Many believe, government will try to use the opportunity by giving it an electoral twist.

“During the debate, number of the speakers from the treasury benches will be higher than the number of the speakers from the opposition camp. Clearly, they will have an edge over the opposition as they will be given more air-time,” said an analyst.

Leader of the opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Ghulam Nabi Azad, had expressed similar thoughts. He had told mediapersons a day before start of the session, “Opposition used to have greater share in the coverage. But, today when we stand to raise our issues, camera does not turn to us.”