Pralhad Joshi Critiques Kharge's Controversial Remarks
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New Delhi/Bengaluru, April 8 (NationPress) Union Minister for Food, Public Distribution and Consumer Affairs Pralhad Joshi vehemently criticized the remarks made by AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge, asserting that such comments are emblematic of the culture and ideology prevalent within the Congress party.
During a press conference in Delhi, Joshi denounced Kharge's statements, which included characterizing the RSS and BJP as a "poisonous snake" and suggesting they ought to be "killed." He labeled these comments as both violent and provocative, emphasizing that it is immature for a senior political figure to resort to such language.
Joshi further expressed his disappointment, stating that Kharge’s derogatory remarks about Gujaratis and the incendiary comments aimed at the RSS and BJP represent a tragic moment for democracy, especially coming from an experienced leader. He expressed regret over the tone of Kharge's remarks.
Claiming that Kharge's statements were influenced by Rahul Gandhi, Joshi noted his long-standing acquaintance with Kharge from college and highlighted that he had not exhibited such behavior previously. He argued that Kharge's recent comments reflect a troubling trend brought on by Gandhi's influence.
Joshi did not hold back in his criticism of Rahul Gandhi either, suggesting that he lacks the seriousness expected of a politician, and warned that Kharge's imitation of him is concerning. He stressed that political opposition should engage in ideological debates rather than resorting to personal attacks or inciting violence.
Characterizing it as "low-level politics," Joshi stated that for a prominent opposition leader and AICC President to allegedly endorse violence is damaging to the Congress party's image. He accused the party of a history of making inflammatory statements that disturb societal peace.
Joshi condemned Kharge’s comments as immature and steeped in animosity, alleging that the inability to counter the RSS and BJP ideologically has led Kharge to resort to incitement, which he called disgraceful.
He also questioned Kharge's comments regarding the literacy of Gujaratis, pointing out that the state has produced distinguished leaders like Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Mahatma Gandhi, and PM Modi.
Joshi provocatively asked if people from states such as Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Kerala, West Bengal, and Maharashtra would also be deemed illiterate based on Kharge's logic.
He accused the Congress party of making such incendiary remarks to foster division among communities and labeled incitement to violence within a democracy as an unforgivable act.
He further alleged that the party's controversial statements stem from a fear of electoral defeat.