Congress leader Praveen Chakravarty elected unopposed to Rajya Sabha; vows to fight for Tamil Nadu

CHENNAI: Congress leader Praveen Chakravarty who was elected unopposed to the Rajya Sabha on Thursday pledged to oppose any legislation that infringes upon the rights of States and assured he would be a strong voice for Tamil Nadu and the ruling alliance in Parliament.

Chakravarty was declared elected unopposed to the Rajya Sabha from Tamil Nadu after all other nominations filed for the by-election were rejected during scrutiny. The vacancy arose following the resignation of C Ve Shanmugam, who was elected to the Tamil Nadu Assembly from the Mayilam constituency.

After receiving his certificate of election from Returning Officer Thenmozhi, Chakravarty thanked Chief Minister Joseph Vijay and alliance leaders for their support.

Speaking to reporters, Chakravarty said he would articulate the concerns of Tamil Nadu and safeguard the interests of the State in the Upper House of Parliament. He also reaffirmed his commitment to protecting India's federal structure.

The Congress leader categorically stated he would oppose measures such as the proposed ‘One Nation, One Election’ policy and any other Bills that, in his view, encroach upon the constitutional rights and powers of States.

Chakravarty added that he would work closely with alliance partners and raise issues concerning State autonomy, fiscal rights and social justice in Parliament, while ensuring that the voice of Tamil Nadu is effectively represented at the national level.