Bengaluru, April 8: Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge expressed strong objections on Wednesday to comments made by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma against Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge. He accused Sarma of making irresponsible and caste-based remarks.
Priyank Kharge also defended his father, Mallikarjun Kharge, regarding the controversial ‘venomous snake’ comment. Speaking to the media in Bengaluru, he claimed that a sense of caste privilege is deeply rooted among BJP leaders, attributing this to the influence of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
He alleged that CM Sarma’s views changed after aligning with the RSS. This ideological training has shaped his statements. Sarma, who belongs to the Brahmin community, enjoys social privileges, which makes him less susceptible to criticism.
Kharge stated that Sarma is not held sufficiently accountable for his remarks against Dalit and marginalized community leaders. He accused the RSS of promoting a ‘Chaturvarna’ mentality, asserting that those who question such ideologies are often targeted.
He pointed out that BJP leaders present themselves as representatives of ‘mature communities’ while failing to move beyond the ‘Chaturvarna’ mindset.
Questioning Prime Minister Modi’s silence, Kharge asked whether he would defend Sarma’s statements. He emphasized that the Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha is being targeted by a sitting Chief Minister.
Defending his father’s previous comment, Priyank clarified that Mallikarjun Kharge’s reference to a ‘venomous snake’ was a metaphor aimed at ideologies that spread hatred in society. He raised the question of whether such ideologies should be promoted or opposed, stating that the BJP and RSS’s beliefs are detrimental to the progress of various societal groups, including minorities, backward classes, Dalits, tribals, and women. He asserted that these ideologies have no place in the Constitution.
He remarked that the RSS adheres to the principles of ‘Manu Smriti,’ while Congress stands by the Constitution. He questioned why the BJP continues to promote the RSS.
Referring to comments made by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, he noted that the organization claims it does not need any political support to maintain its existence.
On Monday, during an election rally in Assam’s Sivasagar district, Kharge cited the Quran, stating that if a venomous snake passes by, even during prayer, one must abandon the prayer to kill the snake. Mallikarjun Kharge remarked that breaking prayer does not matter, as the RSS and BJP represent that venomous snake.
Meanwhile, Assam CM Sarma sharply criticized Kharge during a press conference in Jorhat, questioning his statements and using strong language. Sarma remarked, “Kharge is getting old and speaking like a ‘madman.’ You insult people first and then say you will ask the Foreign Minister for confirmation?”
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