Mallikarjun Kharge's Remark on PM Modi Sparks Political Row, BJP Hits Back

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge made a remark during a programme in Patna on Sunday, stating that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would be defeated, which drew strong criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). According to a video shared by news agency ANI, an audience member shouted that Modi would not go, prompting Kharge to respond with the phrase, "Modi ka baap bhi jayega," as party workers escorted the person out of the hall. Kharge also accused the prime minister of being a habitual liar, questioning the unfulfilled promise of bringing back black money within the first 100 days.

BJP's Response

Union Home Minister Amit Shah criticized Kharge's comments, stating on X that the Congress president had crossed limits and attributing the party's actions to frustration over electoral defeats since 2014. Shah listed past remarks directed at PM Modi and his family by opposition leaders, claiming the Congress was descending into indecency under Rahul Gandhi's leadership. BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari also blamed Congress frustration on expectations of a low turnout for an upcoming rally.

Congress Clarification and Allegations

Congress MP Pawan Khera defended Kharge, alleging that the person who interrupted the speech was a BJP worker. Khera clarified that Kharge's reference was directed at the RSS and its chief, Mohan Bhagwat, rather than personal family members. The Congress and its allies have scheduled a rally at Delhi's Ramlila Maidan on November 1 to protest against the Election Commission and the ruling party.