Congress Demands Apology from Assam CM Sarma for 'Who is Kharge?' Comment
Synopsis
A political storm brews as Congress General Secretary K.C. Venugopal demands an apology from Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma for derogatory remarks about Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge. The escalating dispute highlights ongoing tensions between the BJP and Congress ahead of assembly elections.
Key Takeaways
Political tensions are escalating between Congress and BJP ahead of the assembly elections.
Venugopal demands an apology from CM Himanta Biswa Sarma for his comments.
CM Sarma's remarks reflect a broader strategy to deflect attention from corruption allegations.
The controversy underscores the charged atmosphere of Indian politics.
Both parties are preparing for a critical electoral battle.
New Delhi, April 7 (NationPress) A political controversy ignited on Tuesday following intense exchanges between prominent leaders of the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). K.C. Venugopal, the Congress General Secretary (Organisation), has called for an apology from Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for his remarks aimed at Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge.
Posting on social media platform X, Venugopal criticized Sarma for his so-called "street insults" directed toward Kharge, labeling the Chief Minister's comments as "extremely troubling" and indicative of his frustration.
"Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma questioning 'Who is Kharge?' and resorting to derogatory language like 'pagal' (madman) is highly concerning and showcases his bewilderment," Venugopal asserted.
He also insisted on an unconditional apology from Sarma, emphasizing that Kharge is "one of the most respected leaders in our nation who comes from very humble beginnings."
Furthermore, Venugopal alleged that Sarma's statements were a diversion from the serious corruption accusations looming over him.
"It is evident how unsettled he (CM Sarma) is due to the severe corruption claims against him, and how he resorts to using the most pathetic language to incite hatred. This mentality is what we (Congress) stand against," he added.
The dispute originated from comments made by Chief Minister Sarma earlier on Tuesday during a press briefing in Jorhat, Assam. He launched a fierce critique of Kharge, questioning his statements and employing harsh language.
"Kharge is getting old and is speaking like a 'pagal' (madman). You insult the public first and then say you'll ask the External Affairs Minister for confirmation?" Sarma remarked.
He also posed questions like "Who is Kharge?" and scrutinized the Congress leadership regarding recent allegations involving party spokesperson Pawan Khera. Sarma cautioned that "Assam Police will locate Khera from paatal (hell)" concerning claims that his wife holds three passports, implying potential legal repercussions.
Additionally, Sarma insinuated that the issue might implicate senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, claiming that the documents referenced by Khera could have been provided by him.
"I suspect Rahul Gandhi has supplied these documents. Thus, this case will also involve Rahul Gandhi. Do not attempt to intimidate us. This is Assam, and we have resisted Islamic invasion 17 times," Sarma stated.
This exchange has escalated the ongoing political clash between the BJP and the Congress, particularly as the assembly elections approach on April 9.
The Congress has condemned Chief Minister Sarma's remarks as "derogatory" and "intolerable".
Point of View
Particularly in light of the upcoming assembly elections. The remarks made by CM Sarma and the response from Congress leaders underline the charged atmosphere in Indian politics as parties prepare for electoral battles.
NationPress
9 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Assam CM Sarma say about Kharge?
Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma questioned who Kharge is and referred to him as a 'pagal' (madman), which sparked outrage from the Congress party.
Why is K.C. Venugopal demanding an apology?
Venugopal is demanding an apology because he believes Sarma's comments were derogatory and disrespectful towards a respected leader of the Congress party.
What are the underlying issues in this political row?
The row highlights not only personal attacks but also attempts to divert attention from ongoing corruption allegations against CM Sarma.
What implications does this have for the upcoming elections?
This incident may intensify the political confrontation between BJP and Congress as both parties gear up for the assembly elections on April 9.
How has the Congress party responded to Sarma's remarks?
The Congress party has condemned Sarma's remarks as 'derogatory' and 'unacceptable', calling for accountability from the Chief Minister.
