Congress Leader Kharge Challenges Anurag Thakur: Prove Your Claims or Resign
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Synopsis
On April 3, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge criticized BJP MP Anurag Thakur's allegations in Lok Sabha, demanding proof or resignation. Kharge emphasized his clean record and condemned intimidation tactics, reaffirming his commitment to integrity in politics.
Key Takeaways
- Kharge challenges Thakur to prove allegations.
- Denounces accusations as false and baseless.
- Emphasizes his clean political history.
- Calls for Thakur's resignation if allegations are unproven.
- Stresses commitment to integrity in public life.
New Delhi, April 3 (NationPress) The Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge voiced his strong discontent on Thursday regarding the accusatory comments made by BJP MP Anurag Thakur during a Lok Sabha session the previous day.
Kharge denounced Thakur's remarks as false and unfounded.
He issued a challenge to Thakur to validate his assertions, stating, "Anurag Thakur must prove his allegations. If he succeeds, I will resign. However, if he cannot, he should step down from the Lok Sabha."
Kharge insisted that he would not be cowed by the BJP's maneuvers. "I will not succumb to fear or yield to such tactics," he proclaimed.
The dispute ignited when Anurag Thakur, while discussing the Waqf Bill in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, alleged misconduct and brought Kharge’s name into the conversation.
In a response within the Rajya Sabha on Thursday, Kharge remarked, "No one has ever accused me in such a manner. My life has been transparent. Even in the Assembly, whenever someone attempted to slander me, I received unanimous backing. I have never unlawfully acquired even a small piece of land from anyone."
He further criticized Thakur's statements, demanding an apology from both him and the House Leader. "The BJP cannot intimidate me. Even if they endeavor to erase me, I will remain unafraid," he asserted.
Kharge highlighted his lifelong dedication to integrity in political life. "My existence is an open book. With nearly 60 years in politics, I have adhered to the utmost values. The false allegations made against me yesterday have already disseminated through the media and social networks, tarnishing my reputation. This is intolerable. As the Leader of the Opposition and Congress President, I am obligated to stand against these unfounded claims today."
He reiterated his challenge: "If Thakur can substantiate that I or my family possess even an inch of land illegally, I will resign. But if he cannot, he must step down."
Kharge added, "I am the son of a laborer. I began as a leader of laborers, progressed to District Congress President, and now I hold the position of President of the Congress Party. I have never yielded to pressure, and I will not do so now."
During the session, the Rajya Sabha Chairman also brought attention to the matter, noting that inappropriate comments were previously directed not only at the Leader of the Opposition but also at individuals in esteemed positions, including the Prime Minister. He warned against degrading the dignity of the House.
