The Aryavarth Express
Agency (New Delhi): During a recent public address in Balasore, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge vocally criticized the BJP’s portrayal of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the “eleventh avatar” of Lord Vishnu, a representation he claims the Indian populace will reject. Kharge’s comments came as he campaigned for Congress candidate Srikant K Jena for the Balasore Lok Sabha seat.
Kharge argued that such divine comparisons made by BJP members not only distort Hindu dharma’s traditional narratives, which recognize only ten avatars, but also dangerously blend religious reverence with political image-building. He referred to remarks by BJP leader Sambit Patra, who called Lord Jagannath a devotee of Modi, as an example of the BJP’s excessive adulation.
Expressing concern over BJP’s continued power, Kharge stressed that such governance risks damaging India’s democratic framework and its Constitution. He highlighted the potential threats to the reservation system for SC, ST, and OBC communities, crucial for ensuring social equity.
Addressing the broader issues under the BJP’s rule, Kharge pointed out the alarming rates of unemployment and the vacant posts in both central and Odisha governments that remain unfilled, questioning Modi’s unmet promises of financial prosperity and job creation.
Kharge also tackled the issue of national security and historical courage, countering BJP claims by reminding the public of Congress’s pivotal role in creating Bangladesh and defending India’s sovereignty.
In addition to critiquing the national issues, Kharge accused the Modi administration of neglecting the ongoing unrest in Manipur and prioritizing political interests over effective governance.
Condemning the BJP’s claim of a successful “Gujarat model,” he referred to the recent tragedy in Rajkot’s unlicensed gaming zone as evidence of regulatory failure.
Kharge also discussed the intricate dynamics between BJP and BJD in Odisha, predicting that the apparent recent distancing between the two parties might not last.
He concluded by emphasizing Congress’s historical contributions to Odisha’s development and expressed regret over the state’s decline into poverty under current leadership, which has forced many to migrate in search of better opportunities.