Congress President Kharge’s ‘terrorist’ remark on PM Modi sparks political row, clarification follows

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has triggered a political controversy after he referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a “terrorist” during a public address in Tamil Nadu, prompting strong criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and a subsequent clarification from him.

Kharge made the remark while speaking on issues linked to elections and political alliances, questioning how regional parties could align with the Prime Minister. The comment quickly drew backlash from the BJP, which accused the Congress leader of lowering political discourse and making irresponsible statements.

Following the criticism, Kharge issued a clarification stating that his remarks were being misinterpreted and that he did not intend to label the Prime Minister as a terrorist. He said his comments were aimed at criticising the government’s political conduct and rhetoric rather than making a literal allegation.

The BJP, however, maintained its attack on the Congress leadership, calling the statement inappropriate and reflective of frustration ahead of the elections. Party leaders said such remarks further escalated political tensions during the campaign period.

The incident comes amid an increasingly heated election environment, where sharp exchanges between the ruling party and the opposition have intensified over campaign speeches, governance claims and political alliances.

Kharge’s remarks and the subsequent clarification have added another flashpoint to the ongoing political confrontation between the Congress and the BJP in the run-up to key state elections.