Guwahati: A political controversy arose on April 7, Tuesday evening after Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate criticized Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma over his alleged remarks targeting Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge.
In a statement posted on social media, accompanied by a video, Shrinate said:
“Himanta Biswa Sarma,
You have not only displayed your mental bankruptcy and frustration by calling Mallikarjun Kharge ji, this country’s tallest Dalit leader, Congress president, and Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, ‘pagal’ (insane), but have also crossed every limit of decency in politics.
How much hatred and venom do people like you in the BJP harbour in your hearts for Dalits? Kharge ji’s daughter is married and is a doctor. How dare you ask, ‘Is so-and-so Kharge’s son-in-law?’ What a petty and filthy mindset it is to spout such nonsense against a Dalit leader.
Kharge ji has far more political experience than your age. The son of a mill worker, he rose on his own strength, passion, and commitment from block president to Congress party president.
He has been elected MLA nine times consecutively, served as MP three times, held ministerial positions at both state and central levels, and is currently the Leader of Opposition. He lost family members to violence but advanced in life through sheer dedication and hard work, emerging as a leader who spreads love instead of hatred, with a generous heart and broad vision.
Your words against a person old enough to be your father do not diminish his stature, but they certainly expose your pettiness, narrow-mindedness, and mental state.
Even Ravana’s arrogance could not save him. Your arrogance will likewise become the cause of your downfall.
If you can spare some time from indulging in corruption, consult a good doctor immediately. Your mental condition is not alright.”
The statement adds to the ongoing tensions between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposition Congress.
The row stems from remarks allegedly made by Sarma targeting Kharge, which Congress has described as “derogatory” and “insulting.” The party highlighted Kharge’s position as a senior Dalit leader and Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha. The BJP had not issued an official response at the time of filing this report.
Political observers note that the exchange reflects the increasingly aggressive tone of political discourse ahead of the Assam elections on April 9, where personal attacks are taking attention away from policy discussions.
Kharge, a veteran with decades of experience, is frequently projected by Congress as a symbol of social justice and grassroots leadership.
As the controversy develops, further reactions from both parties are expected, potentially influencing the narrative in the current political climate.