Controversy Erupts Over Priyank Kharges Comments on Bose and Savarkar

Bengaluru, July 29: Karnataka minister and Congress leader Priyank Kharge has sparked controversy with his remarks regarding Subhas Chandra Bose and Veer Savarkar. Leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Janata Dal (United) (JD(U)) have responded critically to Kharge’s comments.

BJP spokesperson Guru Prakash questioned Kharge’s understanding of history during an interview with a news agency. He stated, “Before speaking, you (Priyank Kharge) should study. Kharge and his father Mallikarjun, who are in the party they praise daily, should read its history. Why did Indira Gandhi refer to Veer Savarkar as ‘Veer’? Why did she call him a priceless gem of India?”

Guru Prakash asserted that Kharge lacks facts and figures, claiming he makes such comments merely to please certain groups. He described this behavior as unfortunate and regrettable.

Meanwhile, JD(U) MLC and party spokesperson Neeraj Kumar emphasized the need to understand history rather than provoke unnecessary disputes. He remarked, “There is no need to dig into history unnecessarily; it needs to be understood. No one can deny Subhas Chandra Bose’s contributions to India’s freedom struggle. Although Mahatma Gandhi, Bhagat Singh, and Subhas Chandra Bose had different paths and ideologies, their ultimate goal was the same: India’s independence. We should learn from history, verify facts, and understand circumstances, rather than create needless controversies.”

In contrast, Trinamool Congress MP Kirti Azad supported Kharge’s comments, alleging attempts to rewrite history. Azad stated, “Priyank Kharge has presented historical facts. There are attempts to alter history and education. Those who claim nationalism must answer questions about their past actions. Action should be taken against those who undermine the country’s values. I fully support Priyank Kharge.”

Samajwadi Party national spokesperson Fakhrul Hasan Chand also backed Kharge, saying, “This is part of history. When Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose was uniting people for the Indian National Army and calling for sacrifices in the freedom struggle, Savarkar and leaders associated with the Bharatiya Janata Sangh advocated a different perspective. These historical facts are well documented. Nothing new has been said.”