‘Insult to India itself’: Rajnath Singh reacts to Mallikarjun Kharge’s ‘baap remark’ against PM Modi

New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday criticised Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, over his “baap” remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He said that the words were not only an insult to India, but also an attack on the dignity of politics.

Singh said, “I believe that this is not merely an insult to an individual or family, but to India itself. This is also an assault on the dignity of politics. In a democracy, you may register your opposition, question policies, and criticise the government, but please, do not cross the boundaries of personal decorum.”

He also said that the Prime Minister could not be swayed by such remarks and his resolve to serve the people of the country could not be weakened.

He also reminded the Congress Party that the public kept track of all political conduct, and would give them a befitting reply when the time comes.

Rajnath Singh then accused the Grand Old Party of trying to justify the remarks, instead of apologising. He said, “”But the Congress did not stop there; they are now further hurting people’s sentiments by attempting to justify Kharge ji’s words.”

He added that instead of acknowledging their mistake and expressing regret, the Congress is busy defending and validating the statement, made by its chief.

Meanwhile, the BJP’s Patna Metropolitan unit held a protest march against the Congress Party, following Kharge’s remarks.

The controversy

The controversy started when while, speaking at the 139th birth anniversary of Bihar’s first chief minister, Krihna Sinha, Kharge was heckled by a Modi supporter mid speech. The man told Kharge that “Modi would not go anywhere.”

Responding to the heckler, the senior Congress leader said, “Modi ka baap bhi jayega” (Even Modi’s father will have to go).

The BJP immediately accused Kharge of insulting PM Narendra Modi and also his family. The remarks snowballed into a full blown political controversy.