Growth and equity should be in tandem: Sonia

Referring to challenges arising from the process of economic growth, she said, “Rapid development, ostentatious consumerism and social insensitivity can sharpen disparities and raise tensions. Unfulfilled expectations can lead to upheavals. Even so, I am confident that the centre of gravity is holding and will continue to hold because the spirit of our people wills it so.”

The Congress President said growth without equity tended to destabilise societies, while equity without growth simply could not be sustained. “Yes, if we had an infinite time at our disposal, economic growth alone would result in a transformation of our economies and societies. This was true of Europe 200 years ago. This cannot be true of India or indeed of any developing society now.”

She lauded high levels of economic growth in India as a result of globalisation but added in the same breath: “I am aware that the market in many quarters is seen as the new ruling deity, but our experience shows that there is still a critical role for the state and its institutions.”

Taking a dig at those who refer to the “Nehru-Gandhi dynasty”, Sonia said, “What this fails to signify are two crucial elements: one is the sovereignty of the people. Through the democratic process they have repeatedly vested their expectations in one or another member, and equally on other occasions they have chosen to withdraw their support. The other factor is not the exercise of power but the affirmation of a sacred trust. It is this love and faith that imposes its own responsibility and obligations that has inspired even a reluctant politician such as myself to enter the public domain.”

Citing from Amartya Sen’s Argumentative Indian she said public life in India was characterised by vigorous debate. “However, outside the compulsions of public life, I must confess that I am not a frequent public speaker. I still have a long way to go before becoming the proverbial Argumentative Indian.”