New Delhi (Agency):A potential controversy has stirred up the political scene in India as Congress reacts strongly to alleged derogatory comments by Araga Jnanendra, a senior leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and former Karnataka Home Minister, about Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge.
According to reports, Jnanendra made a potentially offensive remark about Kharge’s skin colour and the people of the region he comes from during a protest in Thirthahalli, Shivamogga on August 1.
Jnanendra made this statement while criticizing Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre, who also comes from the same region as Kharge – Kalyana Karnataka. He questioned their knowledge and understanding about trees, plants, and shade, which are vital for the people living in the Western Ghats region.
In response to these comments, Congress workers held demonstrations in the city against the senior BJP MLA on Wednesday. They shouted slogans against him and questioned his mental fitness.
During the protest, Jnanendra commented, “the government should make its stand clear” about the implementation of the Kasturirangan report. He went on to say, “It is our misfortune that the Forest Minister is from that region (Kalyana-Karnataka), which doesn’t have forest. They don’t know what plant, tree or its shade is, under the scorching heat people there turn black (dark), we will know it by looking at our Kharge. Because of the hair cover, he is saved, it (hairs on head) is shade for them.”
These comments were quickly responded to by Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, who sarcastically suggested sending Jnanendra to a mental health institute in Bengaluru. Minister Khandre criticised Jnanendra for his “low statement”, claiming it was an insult to not only people from Kalyana Karnataka but the entire state. He called for legal action and suggested that the BJP should expel him if they have any morality.
As the matter escalated into a controversy, Jnanendra clarified that he had not spoken about Kharge directly but was willing to express regret if anyone felt hurt. He stated, “I never spoke against Mallikarjun Kharge, I don’t think I’m big enough to criticise him. I always speak with respect for his seniority and experience. My intention was not to hurt Mallikarjun Kharge or Khandre. I have seen reactions in the media. My intention was not to hurt anyone’s feelings, but if anyone is hurt, I express regret.”
The row continues as the political landscape remains tense following the controversial comments, despite the clarifications and apologies made. It is unclear what the next steps will be for either party, but this incident serves as a stark reminder of the often fiery exchanges that can occur within India’s political landscape.