Political Leaders Criticize Kharge’s Diwali Statements as Communal

New Delhi, 9 November — The Congress president’s recent Diwali commentary has become a flashpoint for opposition parties across the NDA spectrum. Union Minister Giriraj Singh told IANS that Kharge’s statements reflect Rahul Gandhi’s script, accusing the Congress of dividing the nation and effectively handing Muslims over to Pakistan. Singh alleged that the party is now indulging in "muslim appeasement" politics and remarked that Kharge failed to extend Diwali greetings, instead recalling the Eid sevai he remembered.

BJP representative Ram Kadam slammed the Congress for turning a holy festival into a political bargaining chip. Kadam questioned the party’s apparent aversion to Sanatan Dharma and asked whether any festival can be weaponised for appeasement. He cited previous election tactics where Congress leaders would visit temples and don sacred threads, contrasting that with the current narrative that tries to link Diwali with vote‑bank politics.

Shiv Sena figure Anand Dubey added a cultural critique, stating that some politicians confuse Eid and Diwali, seeing one through the lens of the other. He suggested that frequent Iftar parties have implanted a particular mindset in Kharge. Dubey highlighted that Lord Rama’s homecoming to Ayodhya was celebrated by lighting lamps, symbolising the removal of darkness. He concluded that a senior leader like Kharge should recognise the distinctness of Diwali and Eid, reaffirming that Diwali remains the foremost Hindu festival of the year.