A Political Controversy Escalates Nationally
Kharge remark triggers BJP’s nationwide protest plan, intensifying the political confrontation between the ruling party and the Congress. A verbal exchange at a public meeting in Patna has escalated into a national controversy, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accusing Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge of insulting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s late father. The BJP has demanded an unconditional apology and mobilised its state units for protests, turning the episode into another flashpoint in India’s increasingly combative political discourse.
What Kharge Said in Patna
The controversy erupted on October 25 at Bapu Sabhagar in Patna during a Congress programme commemorating the 139th birth anniversary of Shri Krishna Singh, Bihar’s first Chief Minister.
While Kharge was addressing the gathering, an audience member interrupted him by shouting, “Modi nahin jayega” (Modi will not go). Kharge responded, “Modi ka baap bhi jayega” (Even Modi’s father will have to go), reportedly repeating the phrase three times.
The remark came amid Kharge’s criticism of the BJP over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. He also demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, alleging institutional failures in safeguarding electoral integrity.
BJP Announces Protests Across States
BJP leaders, including Nitin Nabin and Sambit Patra, demanded an unconditional apology from Kharge and called on Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi to apologise as well.
In Patna, the party planned a protest march from its state office to Income Tax Golambar, including the burning of an effigy. A police complaint was also filed against Kharge in connection with the remark.
The BJP’s central argument is that political disagreement must not descend into personal attacks, particularly involving a deceased family member.
Political Fallout Beyond the Personal Remark
The episode could overshadow Congress’s allegations concerning electoral-roll revisions. For the BJP, it provides an opportunity to question the Opposition’s political conduct; for Congress, it risks diverting attention from its institutional-accountability campaign.
Political Accountability Must Outlast Political Anger
The controversy highlights the growing personalisation of political debate. While leaders must remain accountable for their words, protests should remain peaceful and legal processes should follow due course. Ultimately, democratic credibility depends on substantive debate, respect for public institutions and the ability of political rivals to disagree without allowing personal attacks to overwhelm national issues.
(With agency inputs)
