Leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party in Karnataka staged a protest in front of the Mahatma Gandhi statue at Vidhana Soudha on Thursday, condemning remarks made by Mallikarjun Kharge against Narendra Modi.
The party demanded that Kharge apologise to the nation.
Senior BJP leaders join protest
The demonstration was led by B. Y. Vijayendra, R. Ashoka, Chalavadi Narayanaswamy and Shobha Karandlaje.
Party workers held placards and raised slogans against the Congress leadership.
BJP demands apology
Vijayendra said Prime Minister Modi had received recognition from several countries and alleged that the Congress was unable to accept his popularity and leadership.
He further claimed the remarks insulted not only the BJP but the country as a whole.
Ashoka criticised the statement and demanded Kharge be removed as Congress president while apologising publicly.
Kharge clarifies statement
The controversy began after Kharge, while addressing a press conference in Chennai, used the term “terrorist” while criticising Modi and the BJP alliance with All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam.
Later, he clarified that he meant Modi was “terrorising” the democratic fabric of the country through alleged misuse of institutions.
Political row intensifies
The incident has triggered sharp reactions between the BJP and Congress ahead of future political contests, with both sides exchanging strong criticism.