Union Minister for Food, Public Distribution, and Consumer Affairs, Pralhad Joshi, expressed strong disapproval of AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge’s recent comments, labeling them as reflective of the Congress party’s culture and ideology. Joshi condemned Kharge’s alleged statements branding the RSS and BJP as a “poisonous snake” and advocating for their elimination, deeming them violent and provocative. He emphasized the immaturity of such remarks coming from a senior political figure.
Joshi highlighted the detrimental impact of Kharge’s derogatory remarks towards Gujaratis and his inflammatory comments directed at the RSS and BJP, considering them a setback for democracy and unexpected from a seasoned leader. Expressing deep disappointment over Kharge’s behavior, Joshi attributed the change in Kharge’s approach to the influence of Rahul Gandhi, criticizing the AICC President for adopting irresponsible and inappropriate rhetoric.
Accusing Kharge of being swayed by Rahul Gandhi’s influence, Joshi remarked on the shift in Kharge’s demeanor, emphasizing the need for political opposition to maintain an ideological stance rather than resorting to personal animosity or incitement to violence. Joshi criticized Rahul Gandhi’s political seriousness and suggested that Kharge was mirroring him, asserting that such conduct does not suit a leader of Kharge’s stature.
Referring to Kharge’s actions as “low-level politics,” Joshi expressed dismay over a senior opposition leader like the AICC President allegedly inciting violence, which he believed tarnished the Congress party’s image. Joshi accused the Congress of a history of making provocative statements that sow discord in society, emphasizing the lack of maturity and the presence of hatred in Kharge’s recent remarks.
Questioning Kharge’s characterization of Gujaratis as illiterate, Joshi pointed out the significant leaders Gujarat has produced, including Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Mahatma Gandhi, and PM Modi. He raised concerns about the implications of such statements on people from other states like Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Kerala, West Bengal, and Maharashtra, underlining the divisive nature of such rhetoric. Joshi condemned incitement to violence in a democracy as an inexcusable offense and accused the Congress of resorting to controversial statements out of fear of electoral defeat.
