The Congress president's remarks assume significance as they come in the backdrop of unease in some allies of BJP like Janata Dal-United over the continued disruption of Parliament.
In her first public response on the coal block allocation controversy that has paralysed Parliament with BJP adamant on the prime minister's resignation, Gandhi devoted a major part of her address targeting BJP.
"This attitude of 'our way or no way' makes a mockery of the vision of our founding fathers and of the Constitutional framework, they so painstakingly built for us. Parliament is not being allowed to function and fulfill its proper Constitutional role and duty. This is the handiwork of just one party -- the BJP. This one again shows up the scant respect it has for democratic values," Gandhi said.
Gandhi, who is also the CPP chairperson, took a dig at BJP leader L K Advani by remarking "what else can we conclude when its senior most leader refers to our government as 'illegitmate', thereby mocking the people of India for the convincing mandate they have given us."
The Congress chief said that it was condemnable when there was need to work together across party lines to tackle serious issues facing the people like drought, price rise and economic slowdown, "the country's principal opposition party is acting with wanton irresponsibility".
In the backdrop of the government's move to bring FDI in multi-brand retail facing stiff opposition from some parties including UPA ally Trinamool Congress, Gandhi said, "Many economic policies require a larger political understanding and agreement both within the UPA and with other political parties as well."
She said that Congress was striving sincerely for this consenus both within and outside UPA. "In a democracy, dialogue, debate and discussion are the only way forward. But the opposition especially the principal opposition party, has to come forth and show a sense of responsibility."
