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The political arena in India witnessed a heated exchange between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposition Indian National Congress (INC), stemming from a statement made by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge. Kharge, while addressing a poll rally in Jammu and Kashmir, declared that he would stay alive until Prime Minister Narendra Modi is removed from power. This statement sparked immediate condemnation from the BJP, particularly from Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who described Kharge's words as "distasteful and disgraceful."
Shah, in a post on X (formerly known as Twitter), expressed his disapproval, stating that Kharge's comments reflect the "hate and fear" that the Congress harbors for Prime Minister Modi. He highlighted the unnecessary inclusion of personal health matters into the political discourse, criticizing Kharge for dragging Modi into his own health concerns. Shah argued that the statement demonstrates the Congress's constant preoccupation with Modi, showcasing their negative feelings towards him. He concluded by wishing Kharge a long and healthy life, even expressing hope that he would witness the realization of "Viksit Bharat" (Developed India) by 2047, a vision championed by the BJP government.
Kharge, who fainted during the rally, later clarified that his statement was made in the context of his commitment to his party and his resolve to fight for the people's cause. His son and Karnataka minister, Priyank Kharge, assured the public that his father was recovering well after experiencing a temporary drop in blood pressure. Prime Minister Modi, demonstrating a gesture of concern, reached out to Kharge via phone to inquire about his health. The incident has further fueled the political tensions between the BJP and Congress, highlighting the sharp divisions and antagonistic rhetoric prevailing in Indian politics.
The incident also raised concerns about the level of political discourse in the country, with some commentators expressing worries about the use of personal attacks and inflammatory language in political campaigns. They argued that such rhetoric can create a climate of animosity and polarization, undermining the principles of healthy democratic debate. The exchange between Shah and Kharge serves as a stark reminder of the divisive nature of Indian politics, where personal attacks and inflammatory rhetoric often take center stage, overshadowing substantive policy discussions.
Source: "Disgraceful": Amit Shah On M Kharge's "Will Stay Alive Till..." Remark