‘Distasteful and derogatory’: BJP slams Mallikarjun Kharge for remark on President Droupadi Murmu, seeks apology
On July 8, 2025, the BJP launched a strong attack on Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge. They accused him of insulting President Droupadi Murmu and former President Ram Nath Kovind during a public speech. The BJP called his comments offensive and demanded a public apology.
Kharge’s Statement That Sparked Outrage
Kharge spoke at a rally in Raipur, Chhattisgarh. He criticized the BJP for exploiting natural resources in tribal areas. While highlighting the issue, he mentioned President Murmu and former President Kovind. He said the BJP used their presidencies to justify the seizure of land, forests, and water.
During the speech, Kharge mispronounced their names. He called Murmu “Murma ji” and Kovind “Covid.” Although he corrected himself quickly, the BJP viewed it as deliberate and disrespectful.
BJP’s Strong Response
BJP spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia led the charge against Kharge. He called the remarks “distasteful and derogatory” toward India’s tribal and Dalit communities. “Kharge insulted the highest constitutional posts and hurt the sentiments of marginalized groups,” Bhatia said.
He added that the Congress party had a history of disrespecting leaders from disadvantaged backgrounds. “When Kovind became President, Congress barely acknowledged his achievement. Now they’re doing the same with Murmu,” he said.
The BJP also accused Kharge of using tribal leaders to score political points while attacking their dignity.
Online Backlash and Political Demands
Social media saw a flurry of reactions. BJP leaders and supporters used hashtags like #ApologizeKharge and #RespectThePresident to criticize the Congress leader.
Union Minister Smriti Irani said Kharge’s remarks revealed Congress’s “elitist mindset.” Several BJP MPs demanded that Kharge step down as party president if he refused to apologize.
The BJP also submitted complaints to the Election Commission. They asked for action against Kharge for violating the Model Code of Conduct.
Congress Responds with Justification
Congress defended Kharge and refused to apologize. Party leaders claimed he was raising real concerns about tribal land rights and displacement. They argued that the BJP focused on his mispronunciations to avoid discussing core issues.
Jairam Ramesh, a senior Congress leader, said Kharge never intended to insult anyone. “His comments were about land exploitation, not personal attacks,” he clarified.
Congress sources said the party might issue a clarification, but no apology was planned.
Tribal and Dalit Voices React
Tribal and Dalit activists offered mixed reactions. Some felt Kharge should have spoken more carefully. Others supported his concerns about land and forest loss.
“Tribals continue to lose land despite having one of their own as President,” said Sudha Bhengra, a tribal rights activist. “Representation is important, but it must lead to action.”
Many people from marginalized communities echoed her view. They said symbolic representation alone was not enough.
The Bigger Picture: Identity Politics in India
This episode highlights a larger political issue. Both BJP and Congress have used identity politics to gain support. The BJP cites the elevation of Murmu and Kovind as proof of inclusion. Congress questions whether such moves bring real benefits on the ground.
Kharge’s intent was to raise that issue. But his poor choice of words shifted the focus away from policy.
What Happens Next?
The BJP continues to demand a formal apology. Congress refuses to back down. As state and national elections draw closer, both parties will likely use this controversy to rally their voters.
For many Indians, especially in tribal and Dalit communities, the real concern remains. Does symbolic power lead to change? Or is it just another tool in a political game?
