And the BJP ust considered a nationalist party and Congress as left/liberal/progressive.
Don't try to screw with commonly used terms
“Considered” doesn’t mean much, does it?
Look at the policies.
Aadhaar was a progressive step (flaws and all) introduced by Congress. Further strengthened by the BJP.
When INC wanted to sign Indo-US nuclear deal, the BJP opposed it. Soon it became the plank on the basis of which India-US cooperation became possible and today we are reaping the rewards under the BJP government.
LPG reforms were introduced by INC. BJP had opposed it back then. Then both accepted this progressive step for the benefit of the nation.
GST was first proposed during INC regime, BJP rejected initially but when in power implemented this progressive step for Ease of Doing Business.
Similarly, many schemes for the poor and vulnerable are introduced by the BJP, which a liberal government will never do. These policies are progressive in nature to ensure inclusive growth.
I can go on and on. But the difference between the two in policy practice is not much different.
Isn't it obvious.
Liberals or shall we say classic liberals derive their ideas from the renaissance.
Progressives are partial to Marxist ideas.
Progressives corrupt liberals by pulling them to the left. The term 'liberal' mean progressive in the present.
Fascists do the same with Nationalists.
Yet we have no fascist parties but plenty of progressive ones.
See, that is the problem with polarisation.
You and I can have different opinions and respect each other.
The problem is when the differences are not tolerated and reductive labelling is done, the end result is polarisation of differences and subsequent vilification. That’s why liberals are conflated with Marxists and Nationalists with Fascists.
Engagement becomes impossible.
That’s why I always ask deeper questions. Now, I see that you have a richer understanding of the practical politics and we have not very incompatible views.