The second day of Congress' 85th plenary session commenced on Saturday with an opening address by party president Mallikarjun Kharge. In his speech, Kharge said it's time to reach out to like-minded parties which are opposed to BJP and form a UPA-like alliance. 'There is conspiracy to disrupt country's democracy by BJP, but Congress trying to unite India,' he said.
Besides Kharge, former AICC chief Sonia Gandhi in her capacity as chairman of the parliamentary party also addressed the plenary. In her address, Sonia alluded to her retirement from politics, saying her "innings could conclude with the Bharat Jodo Yatra".
She added that strong workers are the strength of the party. "Congress is not just a political party, but there is democracy here," she said.
Highlights of the speech from Mrs Sonia Gandhi

* Our victories in 2004 and 2009 along with the able leadership of Dr Manmohan Singh gave me personal satisfaction but what gratifies me most is that my innings could conclude with the Bharat Jodo Yatra, a turning point for Congress.
- This is a challenging time for Congress and the country as a whole. BJP-RSS has captured and subverted every single institution in the country. It has caused economic ruin by favouring a few businessmen.
* BJP fuelling fire of hatred. It viciously targeted minorities, women, Dalits, tribals.
* We must tackle BJP regime with vigour, reach out to people and convey our message with clarity.
* This is particularly challenging time for Congress, country. PM Modi and BJP have captured every institution.