Congress Calls for Resignation of Prahlad Patel, Plans Statewide Protests
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Synopsis
The Congress party in Madhya Pradesh is demanding the resignation of Minister Prahlad Patel over his 'begging remark' and has organized statewide protests, set to occur on March 8. Senior leaders criticize Patel for disrespecting the residents of the state.
Key Takeaways
- Prahlad Patel's controversial remarks have sparked outrage.
- Congress plans protests to demand his resignation.
- Patel serves as the Panchayat and Rural Development Minister.
- Protests are scheduled for March 8 across multiple locations.
- Public sentiment against the BJP is being mobilized by Congress leaders.
Bhopal, March 5 (NationPress) The Opposition Congress in Madhya Pradesh has demanded the resignation of Madhya Pradesh Minister Prahlad Patel due to his controversial "begging remark" and has announced plans for protests throughout the state.
Patel serves as the Panchayat and Rural Development Minister in Chief Minister Mohan Yadav's cabinet.
During a press briefing, senior Congress figure and former minister Mukesh Nayak stated that despite his senior status, Patel has disrespected the citizens of the state by labeling them as "beggars," and hence he should be removed from office.
"Our Congress members will organize a sizable protest to demand Patel’s resignation from the cabinet. The protests will take place in Bhopal and various other regions of the state on March 8," Nayak, who oversees the MP Congress' media cell, informed IANS.
In a press conference held in Rewa, senior Congress leader Arun Yadav urged party workers to bring this matter to the public’s attention and to reveal the actions of the BJP.
Interestingly, Patel is responsible for overseeing the Rewa district.
Initially, Patel defended his comments, asserting that he had done nothing wrong and blamed Congress and certain media outlets for misrepresenting his words. However, he later revised his stance on Tuesday, declaring that the public is akin to God.
"The people have always held a supreme position for me, regardless of whether they accept or reject me. But how can the corrupt and dishonest appreciate honest governance? That’s why my statement has been exaggerated," Patel expressed in a post on the social media platform X.
His remarks about corruption were directed at Congress leaders who heavily criticized him following his controversial statements during a ceremony in Rajgarh.
The uproar began after a video surfaced online showing Patel's speech at the unveiling of the statue of Veerangana Rani Avantibai Lodhi in Rajgarh district.
In the recorded speech, Patel is heard saying: "People have grown accustomed to asking the government for support. Leaders come, and a basket full of petitions is presented to them. They are honored on stage, and a letter is handed to them. This is not a healthy practice. Instead of asking, foster a mindset of giving. This will lead to a more fulfilling life and contribute to a cultured society."
He further commented that this "army of beggars" is undermining society.
"Can you name a martyr who has ever begged?" he questioned.
