Controversy Erupts Ahead of Tamil Nadu Elections
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge ignited a political firestorm during a press conference in Chennai, just days before Tamil Nadu's single-phase Assembly elections on April 23. Kharge initially referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a 'terrorist' but quickly clarified his statement, asserting that the Prime Minister was 'terrorising' political opponents.
The Congress chief specifically attacked the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) for its alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). "How can they (AIADMK) join with Modi? He is a terrorist," Kharge stated, before elaborating, "I wanted to clarify that PM Modi always threatens (us). I told you that the Income Tax Department, ED and other institutions are in his hands. I never said he’s a terrorist. He’s terrorising (us)."
Allegations of 'Terrorising' and Misgovernance
Kharge further accused Prime Minister Modi of being a 'liar' and asserted that the Prime Minister had not contributed to the nation's welfare over the past 12 years. He criticized Modi's self-proclaimed '56-inch chest' and claimed the Prime Minister believes in Manusmriti and Chaturvana, labeling him 'anti-women and anti-poor'. Kharge urged the people of Tamil Nadu not to trust Modi, stating, "He has done nothing for the people of this country."
During his address, Kharge also appealed to voters to support the Congress-DMK alliance, highlighting its commitment to protecting Tamil Nadu's rights, social justice, secularism, and inclusive growth. He praised Rahul Gandhi, stating he "embodies all these principles" and stands for "justice, equality and fraternity."
BJP Responds with Strong Condemnation
Union Minister Piyush Goyal swiftly condemned Kharge's remarks, demanding an immediate apology from the Congress President. "We feel ashamed that Congress has come down to such a level. They called a democratically elected Prime Minister a terrorist," Goyal stated, emphasizing that Modi was elected by the people. He asserted that the electorate of Tamil Nadu would respond by supporting the AIADMK-BJP alliance in the upcoming polls.
BJP IT cell chief Amit Malviya also weighed in, criticizing the Congress for resorting to "abuse and vilification of India's most popular leader instead of meaningful debate." Malviya tweeted that such comments reflect "not strength, but a deep frustration and lack of credible alternatives."
The Tamil Nadu Assembly elections are scheduled for April 23, with results to be declared on May 4, marking a crucial political event in the state.