Kharge Attacks BJP in a fiery address in the Rajya Sabha, targeting Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi over their handling of critical issues, including the ongoing violence in Manipur. Referring to Amit Shah’s alleged political tactics, Kharge accused the BJP of conveniently absolving politicians who align with them while ignoring states that don’t vote in their favor.
“Amit Shah Bought A Big Washing Machine”: Kharge’s Jibe At BJP
During the debate on the Constitution, Congress President and Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge accused Amit Shah of “cleaning” the image of politicians who join the BJP.
“Amit Shah has bought a big washing machine. Whoever goes inside comes out clean,” Kharge remarked, using sharp rhetoric to highlight allegations of selective forgiveness for corruption and misdeeds of political leaders who align with the BJP.
Kharge’s statement was a scathing reference to leaders who face allegations or investigations but see cases reportedly take a back seat after joining the ruling party.
Kharge Slams PM Modi Over Manipur Violence
Kharge also took aim at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his absence in Manipur amid the ongoing ethnic violence in the state.
“PM Modi goes for elections everywhere, but he is not ready to go to Manipur. Rahul Gandhi went there and took out a yatra. You have so much security, but you are not going there despite that. Why are you not solving this problem?” Kharge questioned.
Manipur has been grappling with months of ethnic clashes that have displaced thousands and resulted in numerous casualties. Kharge emphasized that Modi’s reluctance to visit the conflict-hit region reflects the government’s apathy.
Congress Counters Allegations On Constitutional Amendments
Responding to earlier remarks by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who criticized Congress for Constitutional amendments aimed at protecting power, Kharge cited Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel to defend the party’s decisions.
“On July 3, 1950, Sardar Patel wrote a letter to Nehru, stating that Constitutional amendments were the only solution to pressing problems. Patel himself said in that letter,” Kharge asserted, dismissing Sitharaman’s accusations.
Kharge’s remarks come in the wake of Sitharaman’s comments accusing Congress governments of undermining democracy through amendments. Sitharaman highlighted instances like the Emergency and Constitutional changes to protect specific leaders, sparking a heated exchange between the two parties.
The Manipur Crisis: BJP Under Pressure
The violence in Manipur has been a recurring flashpoint for the BJP-led government. Despite widespread calls for intervention, Prime Minister Modi’s absence from the region has drawn criticism from opposition leaders. Rahul Gandhi’s visit earlier this year was touted as a stark contrast to the government’s approach.
Kharge’s remarks underscore the Congress’s strategy of highlighting the BJP’s alleged failure to address regional crises, particularly in states where the party faces electoral challenges.
BJP’s “Selective Politics” Under Spotlight
Kharge’s washing machine analogy has amplified the opposition’s long-standing accusation that the BJP uses investigative agencies selectively. Leaders who oppose the BJP often face scrutiny, while those who join the party find their cases softened or dismissed.
This rhetoric resonates with the opposition’s broader narrative, as they accuse the BJP of using central agencies as political tools.
Constitutional Debate Turns Political Battleground
The debate on the Constitution in the Rajya Sabha has transformed into a political battleground, with both the BJP and Congress trading barbs.
- Nirmala Sitharaman criticized Congress for “amendments to protect power.”
- Mallikarjun Kharge defended Congress by citing Patel’s acknowledgment of the need for amendments.
The debate also reflects the opposition’s strategy to challenge the BJP’s governance record while invoking historical leaders like Sardar Patel to counter criticisms.
Public Reaction And Political Impact
Kharge’s sharp attacks have garnered attention both within Parliament and across social media, where debates over BJP’s alleged double standards and the handling of the Manipur crisis continue to rage.
For the Congress, Kharge’s speech is part of a broader strategy to consolidate opposition unity ahead of upcoming elections. The BJP, however, has consistently dismissed such allegations, accusing Congress of hypocrisy and lack of governance during its own rule.
Moving Forward
The Constitution debate has highlighted the deep political divide between the BJP and Congress. As both parties gear up for crucial state and national elections, issues like Manipur violence, selective investigations, and Constitutional values are set to remain central to their narratives.
Kharge’s jibe at Amit Shah and his criticism of PM Modi’s silence on Manipur reflect the opposition’s intent to hold the government accountable on both political and governance fronts. The unfolding political drama is a clear indicator of the high-stakes battles that lie ahead.