Bengaluru, April 8 (NationPress) Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge voiced strong objections on Wednesday regarding remarks made by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma targeting AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge. He criticized Sarma's statements as not only irresponsible but also driven by caste biases.

Priyank Kharge also defended the contentious 'poisonous snake' comments from his father, Mallikarjun Kharge, clarifying that these were metaphorical references to ideologies fostering societal hatred.

During a media interaction in Bengaluru, he expressed concerns about the prevalent sense of caste privilege among BJP leaders, linking it to the influence of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). He argued that CM Sarma's views have shifted due to his affiliation with the RSS, which he believes has influenced his rhetoric.

Priyank Kharge scrutinized CM Sarma’s background, noting that as a member of the Brahmin community, he benefited from social privileges that shield him from criticism. He contended that Sarma's statements against Dalits and marginalized communities lack the necessary accountability.

He further accused the RSS of propagating a “Chaturvarna” ideology, suggesting that those who challenge this mindset are often targeted. According to him, BJP leaders position themselves as representatives of “matured communities” while still adhering to the “Chaturvarna” framework.

Priyank Kharge also raised questions about the silence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, challenging whether he would support Sarma’s comments, especially since the Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha is under attack from a sitting Chief Minister.

In defending his father’s previous remarks, Kharge explained that Mallikarjun Kharge likened dealing with a “poisonous snake” to confronting harmful ideologies. He questioned whether these ideologies should be embraced or opposed.

He claimed that BJP and RSS ideologies hinder the progress of various societal sectors, including minorities, backward classes, Dalits, Adivasis, and women, leaving little room for constitutional values.

Drawing a stark contrast, he stated that while the RSS adheres to the principles of “Manu Smriti”, the Congress party remains committed to the Constitution. He questioned the BJP’s continued support for the RSS, referencing comments from RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on the organization's independence from political support.

Priyank described CM Sarma as appearing “frustrated”, alleging that BJP leaders, including PM Modi, have failed to address the concerns raised by Mallikarjun Kharge in both parliamentary and public forums.

It is noteworthy that during an election rally in Assam’s Sribhumi district, Kharge had stated that if a poisonous snake is in one’s path, even during prayers, one must prioritize dealing with the threat. He remarked, “I believe breaking prayers is insignificant; the RSS and BJP represent that poisonous snake.”

In a previous interaction, CM Sarma had launched an attack on Kharge while speaking to reporters in Jorhat, Assam, labeling him as “aging” and “speaking like a 'pagal' (madman)”. Sarma further questioned Kharge's credibility, asking, “Who is Kharge?” and criticized the Congress leadership in light of recent allegations involving party spokesperson Pawan Khera.