CNN Central News & Network-ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Delhi: New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has criticised Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge over his controversial remark concerning Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s late father, describing the statement as an affront to personal dignity and the standards of political discourse. Singh said political opponents have every right to question government policies and decisions, but should maintain restraint when speaking in public.
The controversy began on October 25, 2026, during a programme in Patna marking the 139th birth anniversary of Bihar’s first Chief Minister, Shri Krishna Singh. While addressing the gathering, Kharge was discussing alleged irregularities in electoral rolls and criticising the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise. When an audience member reportedly interrupted him by saying that Prime Minister Modi would not leave office, Kharge responded with a remark referring to the Prime Minister’s father.
The statement prompted strong reactions from BJP leaders. Rajnath Singh expressed concern that the remark had come from the president of a major national political party. He alleged that the Congress leadership was defending the statement rather than acknowledging the controversy and expressing regret.
Singh also argued that political disagreements should be centred on policies, governance and public issues instead of personal remarks involving family members. He maintained that such comments could not weaken the Prime Minister’s determination to serve the country.
The Congress, however, defended Kharge’s response. Party spokesperson Pawan Khera claimed that the Congress president had been provoked by an audience member and said his remarks referred to the Prime Minister’s ideological association with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), rather than being a personal attack on his family.
The controversy has intensified the political exchange between the BJP and Congress, with BJP leaders demanding an apology and protests taking place in several cities. The episode has renewed debate over political accountability, public conduct and the importance of maintaining civility during democratic disagreements.
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