Karnataka Home Minister and Congress leader Priyank Kharge has taken a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his participation in a ‘Bhajan Clubbing’ event in New Delhi, linking the programme to the ongoing political debate over the Election Commission.
Kharge criticised the Prime Minister’s participation in the devotional music event and questioned why Modi had attended the programme while, according to the Congress leader, questions concerning the functioning of the Election Commission remained unanswered.
The remarks came a day after Modi attended the ‘Bhajan Clubbing’ programme at Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Park in Delhi on Friday. The event was organised to mark the birth anniversary of Bharatiya Jana Sangh leader Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya.
Kharge Targets Modi Over Election Commission Row
Kharge used the Prime Minister’s appearance at the event to raise questions about accountability and the Election Commission.
In his social media post, the Karnataka minister alleged that Modi has been available for public celebrations but has not addressed what Kharge described as serious questions surrounding the Election Commission.
Kharge also referred to what he called a repeated pattern over the past 13 years, alleging that the Prime Minister remains silent when difficult questions are raised against the government.
The comments come amid an ongoing political dispute involving opposition parties and the Election Commission.
BJP Hits Back At Congress Leader
The BJP responded to Kharge’s remarks by accusing him of making fun of India’s cultural and devotional traditions.
BJP spokesperson CR Kesavan criticised the Congress leader and said the remarks showed disrespect towards the traditions associated with bhajan and bhakti.
The BJP spokesperson also turned the attack towards Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, asking Kharge to question him over the Congress party’s electoral record.
The exchange has added another layer to the political confrontation between the BJP and Congress over the Election Commission and other issues.
What Is Bhajan Clubbing?
‘Bhajan Clubbing’ is a newer format of devotional music gatherings that combines traditional bhajans with the atmosphere and presentation style of a modern music event.
Such programmes typically bring together large groups, particularly young people, who sing, clap and participate in devotional performances in a concert-style setting.
Modi has previously spoken positively about the trend and its growing popularity among young people. At Friday’s event in Delhi, he was seen listening to devotional performances and participating by clapping and playing a percussion instrument.
The event was held at Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Park on the occasion of Upadhyaya’s birth anniversary, bringing the emerging devotional music format into the centre of the latest political debate.
