Shri Krishna Singh Remembered as Kharge Raises EVM, SIR Concerns

Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge spoke at a commemorative event in Patna on October 25, observing the 139th birth anniversary of Dr. Shri Krishna Singh, the first Chief Minister of Bihar. The event, held at the Bapu Sabhagar, saw Kharge honour Singh's legacy while also turning his speech toward national electoral issues.

Dr. Shri Krishna Singh, widely known as 'Bihar Kesari', was described by Kharge as the chief architect of modern Bihar. Kharge noted that Singh undertook landmark initiatives in abolishing the zamindari system, bringing in land reforms, strengthening education, developing irrigation infrastructure and promoting industrial growth. He also recalled Singh's campaign against untouchability, which he described as an important social reform.

After paying tribute, Kharge shifted to contemporary political concerns. He raised questions about the electoral system, EVMs and the Special Intensive Revision of voter lists. He targeted the central government and the ideologies of the BJP and the RSS. Kharge once again demanded that elections across the country be conducted using ballot papers and questioned the processes followed in elections held in recent years.

While the message was delivered from the stage, the response in the auditorium drew notice. Videos and photographs from the venue showed a large number of empty seats, with the crowd concentrated mainly near the stage and in the front rows. Eyewitnesses said many workers and supporters left the hall during the speech, and a significant portion of the hall remained empty even though senior leaders were present on the dais.

The event also saw a moment of confrontation. A young man interrupted Kharge while he was speaking, creating a brief commotion. The youth was reportedly involved in a scuffle with some workers at the venue.

The youth, who claimed to be a Congress supporter, was trying to express his opinion on the political debate concerning Prime Minister Modi. According to witnesses, he said that such political battles would not result in Modi losing power. His remarks led to heightened tensions in front of the stage, and some workers allegedly pushed and assaulted him.