A major political controversy has erupted after Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge made a controversial remark during an election rally in Assam, triggering strong backlash from the Bharatiya Janata Party. The BJP has now filed an FIR and approached the Election Commission of India, demanding strict action.
Controversial Remark at Assam Rally
Using a religious reference, he said that if a poisonous snake appears during namaz, one must stop prayers and deal with the threat first. The statement quickly went viral and sparked outrage across political circles.
Kharge Issues Clarification
Following the backlash, Kharge clarified that his comments were aimed at the “ideology” of the BJP and RSS, not any religion or community.
He described the ideology as “poisonous” and harmful to the country, attempting to tone down the controversy. However, the clarification did little to calm the situation.
BJP Hits Back, Files FIR
The Assam unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party reacted strongly, calling the remarks “provocative” and “divisive.”
The party filed a formal complaint at Basistha Police Station in Guwahati and also moved the Election Commission, seeking legal action against Kharge.
In its complaint, the BJP alleged that such inflammatory statements during an election campaign could disturb social harmony and hurt religious sentiments.
BJP Accuses Congress of Appeasement Politics
In a sharp statement, Assam BJP accused the Congress of targeting “sacred symbols of Sanatan civilisation” to appease a specific voter base.
The party termed Kharge’s remarks as “deeply offensive and irresponsible,” claiming they insult Hindu beliefs and traditions.
BJP spokesperson Pranjal Kalita further alleged that the statement was a “calculated attempt to polarise voters” and warned of its potential impact on communal harmony.
Political Tensions Rise in Election Season
The BJP also criticised Congress leaders for allegedly contradicting their own claims of upholding constitutional values. According to the party, such rhetoric reflects “political intolerance” and an attempt to divide voters along religious lines.
The Congress, however, maintains that its criticism is directed at ideology, not religion.
Key Question: Why Is This Remark Controversial?
The controversy stems from the religious analogy used by Kharge, which the BJP claims hurts sentiments and promotes division during a sensitive election period. Political statements linked with religion often trigger strong reactions in India’s electoral landscape.
Key Question: What Action Can Be Taken Against Kharge?
If the Election Commission finds the remarks in violation of the Model Code of Conduct, it can issue notices, warnings, or even campaign restrictions. Legal action may also proceed based on the FIR filed by BJP leaders.
What did Mallikarjun Kharge say?
Kharge compared BJP and RSS ideology to a “poisonous snake” during a rally, saying it must be dealt with immediately.
What action has BJP taken?
The BJP has filed an FIR and approached the Election Commission, demanding action over the alleged inflammatory remarks.
