A major political controversy has erupted after Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge made a controversial statement during a public rally in Kerala’s Idukki, drawing sharp reactions from BJP leaders across the country.
While addressing voters, Kharge urged people to support the Congress-led alliance and said, “Don’t misguide the people of Keralam, they are very clever, they are educated, Modiji, Vijay, you both can fool people who are illiterate, in Gujarat, and in other places, but you can’t fool Keralam people.”
BJP Slams Kharge Over ‘Insult’ to Gujaratis
Reacting strongly, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel called the statement “extremely objectionable and unfortunate.”
In a post, he said, “Such remarks not only insult the 6 crore residents of Gujarat but also tarnish the dignity of the sacred land of Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Patel.”
Patel further accused the Congress of making such comments out of political insecurity, claiming the party is uncomfortable with the growing public support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Congress Under Fire as Row Escalates
The controversy has intensified political tensions, with BJP leaders alleging that the statement reflects a dismissive attitude towards Gujaratis. Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi also criticised Kharge, stating that targeting an entire state shows a deeper bias.
The BJP has used the remark to mount a strong attack on the Congress, especially at a time when elections are approaching in several regions.
Viral Video Fuels Nationwide Debate
With the video of Kharge’s speech widely circulating on social media, the issue has turned into a nationwide political flashpoint. The remarks have triggered debates over political language and the limits of campaign rhetoric.
As the controversy continues to grow, pressure is mounting on the Congress leadership to respond, while the BJP is pushing the narrative of an “insult” to Gujarat and its people.
What did Mallikarjun Kharge say
He said, “you can fool people who are illiterate, in Gujarat,” which has triggered backlash.
Why is there a controversy
BJP leaders have accused Kharge of insulting Gujaratis, leading to a major political storm.
