UPA rule a decade of lost opportunities, BJP’s Tejasvi Surya tells Lok Sabha

BJP leader Tejasvi Surya on Monday described the ten years of United Progressive Alliance (UPA) rule (2004–14) as a “decade of lost opportunities and a narrative of excuses” while seconding the Motion of Thanks on the President’s Address in the Lok Sabha. He accused the previous UPA governments of failing on economic, security and governance fronts, contrasting them with the achievements of the current BJP‑led regime.

Surya highlighted specific UPA‑era failings, citing stagnating growth and corruption referenced in past President’s addresses that pointed to sluggish economic recovery and policy paralysis. He said GDP growth dipped to around 5.6 per cent in 2012–13 , with the average growth under UPA at about 6.8 per cent , compared to the NDA’s subsequent decade.

On security, Surya claimed the UPA lacked decisive action on terrorism and Naxalism, allowing repeated high-profile attacks, whereas the Modi government responded with military strikes and reinforced internal security measures . He argued that UPA-era presidents’ addresses reflected “a narrative of excuses,” while current leadership delivers despite challenges.

Surya also criticised UPA-era addresses for omitting India’s cultural ethos and heritage , asserting that the current President Droupadi Murmu’s address highlighted progress, governance, and India’s rising global stature. He pointed to India remaining one of the fastest-growing major economies, with youth being empowered as torchbearers of the country’s future.

Lok Sabha Reaction and Opposition Response:

As Surya spoke, several Congress members protested his remarks on cultural heritage. Home Minister Amit Shah intervened , clarifying that Surya referred to the content of the addresses, not individuals. Later, Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi criticised procedural rulings and challenged the BJP narrative, leading to heated exchanges and the Speaker calling for order.

Surya emphasised that the key distinction between the two parties lies in leadership“weak leadership gives excuses; great leadership delivers”. He linked this theme to the President’s Address, highlighting the BJP’s claims of honest governance, decisive action against terrorism, and cultural recognition as markers of performance compared to the UPA era.