Remarks on PM's Father Unacceptable, Kharge Must Apologise

New Delhi, October 26: JD(S) leader and Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy has termed Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge's remarks on Prime Minister Narendra Modi unacceptable, saying they were insulting to the Prime Minister and his family. He has demanded that Kharge apologise publicly.

Kumaraswamy made his views known through a post on X, where he condemned the Congress chief's statement as an open breach of political dignity. He said the remarks about the Prime Minister were offensive and that the language used by Kharge reflected a mindset that was harsh and hidden beneath the surface. He further said the words mocked the values that humanity holds dear.

In his post, Kumaraswamy cited the saint-poet Purandara Dasa and his call to an unruly tongue to abandon its tainted understanding. He said the poet's message was intended to correct such speech and conduct, and that he was therefore firmly opposed to Kharge's comments.

The Union Minister stated that targeting the Prime Minister's late and revered father for political reasons was unacceptable under any circumstances. He added that Kharge's long experience and seniority in public life made the narrow tone of his remarks even more troubling and inexcusable.

Kumaraswamy also charged that Kharge's behaviour pointed not just to political frustration but to something deeply shameful. He claimed it demonstrated the Congress party's descent to its lowest level.

He asserted that Kharge must apologise to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and preserve the dignity attached to his seniority and public office.

The remarks were made by Kharge at a programme in Patna, the capital of Bihar, where he referred to Prime Minister Modi and his father. While Congress leaders have defended his statement, several BJP leaders have strongly reacted and demanded an apology.