New Delhi, Jan 27 (NationPress) BJP leader Gourav Vallabh launched a strong rebuttal against the Congress party for questioning the choices of Padma award recipients, asserting that the current administration honors individuals who truly merit national accolades and have significantly contributed to society, in stark contrast to what he claims was the practice during the UPA regime.

Vallabh’s comments followed the Congress party's objections to awarding Padma honors to various figures, including former Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari and IIT Madras Director V. Kamakoti.

In an interview with IANS, Vallabh stated, “As I mentioned, putting aside political ideologies, interests, and personal agendas, those who have demonstrated commitment to the people, society, country, and state are being recognized with Padma awards. It is inappropriate to politicize this, whether in entertainment or politics.”

“Those who have made positive contributions, regardless of the manner, deserve recognition. Why is the Congress party opposed to this?” he continued.

In his critique of the Congress, Vallabh alleged that awards were previously utilized as political tools.

“Previously, television anchors who spent all day praising the UPA government were recipients of Padma Bhushan awards. Awards were granted based on recommendations from the Gandhi family,” he asserted.

Vallabh questioned the Congress’ objections, stating, “Is the Congress unhappy that former Kerala Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan, Rohit Sharma, or Shibu Soren are being honored? These decisions are made impartially, unlike during the UPA era.”

This controversy arises amid strong criticism from Congress and NCP(SP) leaders regarding the decision to award the Padma Bhushan to Bhagat Singh Koshyari.

His term as Maharashtra Governor from September 2019 to February 2023 was characterized by frequent clashes with the then Maha Vikas Aghadi government led by Uddhav Thackeray.

Maharashtra Congress president Harshwardhan Sapkal claimed that Koshyari had disrespected a constitutional role and offended the sentiments of the people in the state.

Sapkal also mentioned that he had declined an award from a Pune-based social organization because it was to be presented by Koshyari.

The Congress has also criticized IIT Madras Director V. Kamakoti, questioning his selection due to past comments regarding cow urine, despite the Padma award citation acknowledging his contributions to education.

In a social media post, the Congress referred to Kamakoti's remarks made at a public event last year, where he discussed the alleged medicinal properties of cow urine while addressing traditional knowledge systems and organic farming.

These comments had previously drawn backlash from opposition members and rationalist groups, who accused him of endorsing unscientific views that contradict his position at a leading technical institution.