The last day of the monsoon session was marked by pandemonium and intense political friction after Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said that a purification ceremony, or “shuddhikaran”, was reportedly held at Haldwani’s Ramlila Ground after the Congress president addressed a rally there on August 8. The ritual was held by the far-right outfit Shri Ram Sena, which had an alleged link to the BJP, according to Uttarakhand President Ganesh Godiyal.Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge belongs to the Dalit community. A video circulating on social media showed a priest performing Havan because, as Kharge is Dalit, he supposedly defiled the place. In another video, one of the organisers, Girsh Chandra Pandey, seemed to be saying that the place holds religious importance and that Kharge had raised slogans which sounded like “Islamic slogans”. Kharge reportedly rejected the existence of Ram, so he is an anti-Hindu man.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-morocco-ceuta-melilla-sovereignty-dispute-1786558460622">Spain rejects Morocco’s Ceuta, Melilla claims: ‘Super-Spanish and cannot be touched’</a>"There were lakhs of people present at the time. I did not name any community or religion. I only spoke about the problems faced by the people there. But after my speech, BJP workers performed a havan," said Kharge. “Is this the way in a democracy? How are you protecting the Constitution? I am the LoP... I never wanted to politicise these issues.”&nbsp;BJP President JP Nadda called it an "unfortunate" incident and claimed that the party does not subscribe to these activities. “We in BJP do not endorse such acts. We do not know who was behind this. But we will find it out,” said Nadda before the house was adjourned on Thursday.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Give me a single reason why Dalits should not reject Hinduism. Convert ASAP. Mallikarjun Kharge is the president of Congress and has been MP, MLA, and minister many times, but his crime is that he is a Dalit. Hindutva group did &quot;PURIFICATION RITUAL&quot; after he held a meeting in… <a href="https://t.co/B1KQwiUzG9">pic.twitter.com/B1KQwiUzG9</a>&mdash; Suraj Kumar Bauddh (@SurajKrBauddh) <a href="https://x.com/SurajKrBauddh/status/2087554018889683410?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

A political row erupted after a ‘shuddhikaran’ ceremony was reportedly held at Haldwani’s Ramlila Ground following Mallikarjun Kharge’s rally, drawing condemnation from Congress and BJP.

The last day of the monsoon session was marked by pandemonium and intense political friction after Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said that a purification ceremony, or “shuddhikaran”, was reportedly held at Haldwani’s Ramlila Ground after the Congress president addressed a rally there on August 8. The ritual was held by the far-right outfit Shri Ram Sena, which had an alleged link to the BJP, according to Uttarakhand President Ganesh Godiyal. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge belongs to the Dalit community. A video circulating on social media showed a priest performing Havan because, as Kharge is Dalit, he supposedly defiled the place. In another video, one of the organisers, Girsh Chandra Pandey, seemed to be saying that the place holds religious importance and that Kharge had raised slogans which sounded like “Islamic slogans”. Kharge reportedly rejected the existence of Ram, so he is an anti-Hindu man. Also Read: Spain rejects Morocco’s Ceuta, Melilla claims: ‘Super-Spanish and cannot be touched’ "There were lakhs of people present at the time. I did not name any community or religion. I only spoke about the problems faced by the people there. But after my speech, BJP workers performed a havan," said Kharge. “Is this the way in a democracy? How are you protecting the Constitution? I am the LoP... I never wanted to politicise these issues.” BJP President JP Nadda called it an "unfortunate" incident and claimed that the party does not subscribe to these activities. “We in BJP do not endorse such acts. We do not know who was behind this. But we will find it out,” said Nadda before the house was adjourned on Thursday.

A political row erupted after a ‘shuddhikaran’ ceremony was reportedly held at Haldwani’s Ramlila Ground following Mallikarjun Kharge’s rally, drawing condemnation from Congress and BJP.

'Is this the way in a democracy?'- Row in parliament over 'shuddhikaran' in Haldwani following Kharge rally

Opposition parties in the Rajya Sabha continued to demand the presence of Union home minister Amit Shah over the police action against student protesters at Jantar Mantar and did not let the House function on Thursday.After repeated disruptions, Rajya Sabha Chairman and Vice President CP Radhakrishnan asked Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju to convey the sentiments to the home minister.&nbsp;The chairman tried to take up the Question Hour, but opposition members continued sloganeering. He urged them to maintain order and assured them that they would get an opportunity to raise their concerns.&nbsp;&nbsp;The opposition MPs continued to demand that Shah come to the House and respond to questions on alleged excesses by security forces during the crackdown on protesters marching to Parliament on July 20 on the paper leak issue, raising slogans “Amit Shah jawaab do, Sadan mein aao (Amit Shah must answer, come to the House).”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bombay-high-court-overturns-tarun-tejpal-acquittal-sentences-former-tehelka-editor-to-10-years-in-2013-rape-case-1786009967096">Bombay High Court overturns Tarun Tejpal’s acquittal, sentences former Tehelka editor to 10 years in 2013 rape case</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge reiterated the opposition’s demand that Amit Shah address the House on the police action and said the opposition was ready for a discussion.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We raised questions concerning the country and 140 crore people, and what are we asking for… that the Home Minister and Prime Minister should come. I request you Sir, you direct (the) Home Minister to come here, and give a statement; we are ready to discuss,” he said.&nbsp;Responding to the demand, Rijiju said Kharge had not cited any rule while making the request and could not decide which minister should reply on behalf of the government.&nbsp;“The leader of the opposition did not quote any rule, cannot give direction to the Chair, only make requests, cannot dictate,” Rijiju said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cjp-s-dipke-denies-political-ambitions-announces-nationwide-kya-bolti-public-campaign-1786020424542">CJP's Dipke denies political ambitions, announces nationwide 'Kya Bolti Public' campaign</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Rijiju cited two rules, Rules 235, seeking an end to Opposition’s interruptions, and Rule 240 on irrelevance or repetition, and said that Kharge was repeating his remarks.&nbsp;“Every day Kharge ji reads out the same thing, Kharge ji says the same thing, this rule applies to our leader of the opposition," Rijiju said.&nbsp;After the exchange, the Rajya Sabha Chairman asked Rijiju to convey the sentiments of the opposition to the home minister.&nbsp;The Chairman said, “I request you to consider the request for the Home Minister to come to the House; as Parliamentary Affairs Minister, you can echo the sentiments of the Opposition to the Home Minister.”

The opposition MPs in Rajya Sabha continued to demand that Home Minister Amit Shah come to the House and respond to questions on alleged excesses by security forces on protesters on July 20, raising slogans “Amit Shah jawaab do, Sadan mein aao (Amit Shah must answer, come to the House).”

Opposition parties in the Rajya Sabha continued to demand the presence of Union home minister Amit Shah over the police action against student protesters at Jantar Mantar and did not let the House function on Thursday. After repeated disruptions, Rajya Sabha Chairman and Vice President CP Radhakrishnan asked Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju to convey the sentiments to the home minister. The chairman tried to take up the Question Hour, but opposition members continued sloganeering. He urged them to maintain order and assured them that they would get an opportunity to raise their concerns. The opposition MPs continued to demand that Shah come to the House and respond to questions on alleged excesses by security forces during the crackdown on protesters marching to Parliament on July 20 on the paper leak issue, raising slogans “Amit Shah jawaab do, Sadan mein aao (Amit Shah must answer, come to the House).” Also Read: Bombay High Court overturns Tarun Tejpal’s acquittal, sentences former Tehelka editor to 10 years in 2013 rape case Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge reiterated the opposition’s demand that Amit Shah address the House on the police action and said the opposition was ready for a discussion. “We raised questions concerning the country and 140 crore people, and what are we asking for… that the Home Minister and Prime Minister should come. I request you Sir, you direct (the) Home Minister to come here, and give a statement; we are ready to discuss,” he said. Responding to the demand, Rijiju said Kharge had not cited any rule while making the request and could not decide which minister should reply on behalf of the government. “The leader of the opposition did not quote any rule, cannot give direction to the Chair, only make requests, cannot dictate,” Rijiju said. Also Read: CJP's Dipke denies political ambitions, announces nationwide 'Kya Bolti Public' campaign Rijiju cited two rules, Rules 235, seeking an end to Opposition’s interruptions, and Rule 240 on irrelevance or repetition, and said that Kharge was repeating his remarks. “Every day Kharge ji reads out the same thing, Kharge ji says the same thing, this rule applies to our leader of the opposition," Rijiju said. After the exchange, the Rajya Sabha Chairman asked Rijiju to convey the sentiments of the opposition to the home minister. The Chairman said, “I request you to consider the request for the Home Minister to come to the House; as Parliamentary Affairs Minister, you can echo the sentiments of the Opposition to the Home Minister.”

The opposition MPs in Rajya Sabha continued to demand that Home Minister Amit Shah come to the House and respond to questions on alleged excesses by security forces on protesters on July 20, raising slogans “Amit Shah jawaab do, Sadan mein aao (Amit Shah must answer, come to the House).”

Rajya Sabha chairman tells Rijiju to ‘convey sentiments’ of opposition demanding Amit Shah’s presence

The Monsoon Session of Parliament witnessed another heated confrontation as the government and the opposition clashed over the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill.

The proposed legislation aims to strengthen India's anti-paper leak law through stricter punishments, faster investigations, and expedited trials. However, the opposition argued that tougher laws alone cannot restore confidence in the examination system without fixing administrative failures.

Parliament Erupts Over Anti-Paper Leak Bill | Opposition Targets Government on Student Protests

Rajya Sabha Leader of Opposition and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday raised questions on Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s absence from the parliament and his silence on the police crackdown on the CJP protest. Speaking in the Rajya Sabha after Union Minister Jitendra Singh tabled the anti-paper leak bill, Karge dought answers from Shah and PM Modi over their absence from the parliament during the debate on the bill.&nbsp;Kharge also questioned if someone had “stitched” the home minister’s mouth and if that was the reason for his silence on the crackdown on protesters during the July 20 ‘Chalo Sansad’ march of the Cockroach Janta Party.&nbsp;“You are the home minister. This was happening in Delhi. And yet despite all this happening, you did not open your mouth. Has someone stitched your mouth shut,” Kharge asked.&nbsp;BJP leaders in the house, including JP Nadda, took umbrage over the remark and objected that the statement was “unparliamentary.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">VIDEO | Parliament Monsoon Session: Speaking during discussion on Anti-Paper Leak Bill, Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, says, &quot;Our Home Minister Amit Shah is not visible... he speaks over small issues, goes everywhere but not coming here. Even the PM is… <a href="https://t.co/gvnSyC3BWl">pic.twitter.com/gvnSyC3BWl</a>&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://x.com/PTI_News/status/2082761607608946971?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-pm-fb-post-issue-meta-assures-rigorous-safeguards-for-posts-by-prominent-accounts-1785343588801">After PM FB post issue, Meta assures rigorous safeguards for posts by prominent accounts</a>&nbsp;“They are firing pellet guns at children who have come from villages and from other states. One has lost an eye, another has lost an ear, someone else has lost a hand. Who is responsible for that? The Home Minister is responsible. You (Shah) may be listening to me from behind closed doors, but you cannot remain hidden in a closed room forever. One day, we will drag you out,” Kharge said, asserting that his remarks were not unparliamentary.&nbsp;“I did not use any unparliamentary language. By ‘us’, I meant ‘janshakti’ (power of people) --- people, students, women. I did not say I will drag home minister, I meant that ‘janshakti’ will drag him out,” the Congress chief said.&nbsp;Earlier in the day, Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi alleged in a post on X that Amit Shah’s silence and absence from the house “reeks of guilt.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ex-pm-manmohan-singh-gets-supreme-court-clean-chit-in-coal-block-scam-case-after-his-death-1785337284497">Ex-PM Manmohan Singh gets Supreme Court clean chit in coal block scam case after his death</a><h2>Kharge slams anti-paper leak bill, says amendments mere eyewash</h2>&nbsp;Kharge also slammed the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, and said that the new amendments introduced by the government are a mere eyewash.&nbsp;The only major change in the bill is stricter punishment, and the provisions in it do not work towards preventing or stopping paper leaks, he alleged.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/anti-paper-leak-bill-passed-by-voice-vote-in-lok-sabha-amid-opposition-uproar-1785321067909">Anti-paper leak bill passed by voice vote in Lok Sabha amid opposition uproar</a>&nbsp;“So many innocent people suffered due to paper leaks... nothing is going to happen with this new Bill as only some data has been changed in old law. Provisions have been made for hefty fine, strict punishment, special task force, fast track courts, however, nothing is going to change. Real change will only happen how you conduct examinations. There is nothing new in the bill. We had demanded a strict law in 2024 itself, but our demand was rejected,” Kharge told the house.&nbsp;He also alleged the proposed legislation was brought only after the government feared growing student protests.&nbsp;“Government bowed down before students out of fear of losing ‘kursi’, not to solve their problems,” he said.

Rajya Sabha Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge slammed the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, and said that the new amendments introduced by the government are a mere eyewash. He alleged that the only major change in the bill is stricter punishment.

Rajya Sabha Leader of Opposition and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday raised questions on Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s absence from the parliament and his silence on the police crackdown on the CJP protest. Speaking in the Rajya Sabha after Union Minister Jitendra Singh tabled the anti-paper leak bill, Karge dought answers from Shah and PM Modi over their absence from the parliament during the debate on the bill. Kharge also questioned if someone had “stitched” the home minister’s mouth and if that was the reason for his silence on the crackdown on protesters during the July 20 ‘Chalo Sansad’ march of the Cockroach Janta Party. “You are the home minister. This was happening in Delhi. And yet despite all this happening, you did not open your mouth. Has someone stitched your mouth shut,” Kharge asked. BJP leaders in the house, including JP Nadda, took umbrage over the remark and objected that the statement was “unparliamentary.”

Rajya Sabha Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge slammed the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, and said that the new amendments introduced by the government are a mere eyewash. He alleged that the only major change in the bill is stricter punishment.

Kharge slams Home Minister Amit Shah for absence from Parliament, silence on CJP crackdown

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi has officially assumed charge of the Ministry of Education following the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan. The appointment comes after weeks of nationwide student protests over the alleged NEET paper leak and examination irregularities. Joshi will continue to hold his existing portfolios of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, and New and Renewable Energy, in addition to the Education Ministry. Speaking after taking charge, he thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for placing his trust in him and pledged to discharge his new responsibilities with dedication, humility and honesty.

Pralhad Joshi takes charge of Education Ministry after Dharmendra Pradhan resigns | NEET Protest 

Following weeks of nationwide student protests, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned, leading to the end of the CJP-led agitation at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. After the third round of talks, the government accepted CJP's key demands, including withdrawing cases against protesters and considering a five-point education reform charter. Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia, Supriya Sule, and activist Sonam Wangchuk, welcomed the development while urging comprehensive reforms, greater transparency, and accountability in India's education system.

Dharmendra Pradhan Resigns as CJP Calls Off Protest | Opposition Demands Education Reforms

Leaders of the INDIA bloc held a key meeting in New Delhi on Monday (Jun 8), where alliance chairperson and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge urged opposition parties to remain united against what he called the Centre’s “misgovernance” and continued challenges to constitutional values. In his opening remarks, Kharge also slammed the government over SIR and the economy during the meeting.Praising the unity, Kharge said, “This group came into existence almost exactly three years ago. I do not wish to speak at length, because the issues before us are well known to all of you. On April 17, 2026, we demonstrated our unity and solidarity in the Lok Sabha in a very decisive manner, when we all came together firmly to defeat the Modi government's malicious bills on delimitation.”He urged alliance partners to build on that unity, claiming “misgovernance” by the government on key issues, including political, economic, social and foreign policy. Speaking on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, Kharge alleged that the exercise was depriving millions of citizens of their voting rights. He also accused the Centre of undermining constitutional principles and misusing investigative agencies to pressure and target opposition leaders, while claiming that non-BJP state governments faced discrimination.“Due to SIR, the voting rights of our millions of people are being stripped away. The assault on the Constitution continues unabated. Investigative agencies are being persistently used as tools to harass, intimidate, and bully political opponents. Discrimination is being meted out against non-BJP governments,” he said.The Congress president further criticised the government’s economic management, saying that prices of essential goods were rising and economic growth was “negative”.He said, “Prices of essential goods are continuously rising, and the economic environment is extremely negative. New investments are not coming in at the pace required to generate new jobs. Private monopolies are growing in many sectors, and the future of MSMEs is in serious crisis.”Kharge also expressed concern over the examination system, alleging that repeated irregularities were hurting the aspirations of young people seeking educational and employment opportunities.“Due to the complete mismanagement of the examination system, the hopes and aspirations of our lakhs of youth are being betrayed. Atrocities against the weaker sections of society, especially in BJP-ruled states, continue relentlessly.”Speaking on foreign policies, he added, “Our foreign policy has been completely compromised, and those traditional values that India has long staunchly supported have not been upheld.”

At an INDIA bloc meeting in New Delhi, Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge accused the Centre of misgovernance, criticised SIR, inflation, unemployment and foreign policy, and called for opposition unity.

Leaders of the INDIA bloc held a key meeting in New Delhi on Monday (Jun 8), where alliance chairperson and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge urged opposition parties to remain united against what he called the Centre’s “misgovernance” and continued challenges to constitutional values. In his opening remarks, Kharge also slammed the government over SIR and the economy during the meeting. Praising the unity, Kharge said, “This group came into existence almost exactly three years ago. I do not wish to speak at length, because the issues before us are well known to all of you. On April 17, 2026, we demonstrated our unity and solidarity in the Lok Sabha in a very decisive manner, when we all came together firmly to defeat the Modi government's malicious bills on delimitation.” He urged alliance partners to build on that unity, claiming “misgovernance” by the government on key issues, including political, economic, social and foreign policy. Speaking on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, Kharge alleged that the exercise was depriving millions of citizens of their voting rights. He also accused the Centre of undermining constitutional principles and misusing investigative agencies to pressure and target opposition leaders, while claiming that non-BJP state governments faced discrimination. “Due to SIR, the voting rights of our millions of people are being stripped away. The assault on the Constitution continues unabated. Investigative agencies are being persistently used as tools to harass, intimidate, and bully political opponents. Discrimination is being meted out against non-BJP governments,” he said. The Congress president further criticised the government’s economic management, saying that prices of essential goods were rising and economic growth was “negative”. He said, “Prices of essential goods are continuously rising, and the economic environment is extremely negative. New investments are not coming in at the pace required to generate new jobs. Private monopolies are growing in many sectors, and the future of MSMEs is in serious crisis.” Kharge also expressed concern over the examination system, alleging that repeated irregularities were hurting the aspirations of young people seeking educational and employment opportunities. “Due to the complete mismanagement of the examination system, the hopes and aspirations of our lakhs of youth are being betrayed. Atrocities against the weaker sections of society, especially in BJP-ruled states, continue relentlessly.” Speaking on foreign policies, he added, “Our foreign policy has been completely compromised, and those traditional values that India has long staunchly supported have not been upheld.”

At an INDIA bloc meeting in New Delhi, Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge accused the Centre of misgovernance, criticised SIR, inflation, unemployment and foreign policy, and called for opposition unity.

INDIA bloc meeting: Kharge criticises government over SIR, economy, foreign policy

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday carried out searches at multiple locations across Karnataka, including premises linked to the sons of Karnataka Congress MLA N A Haris, in connection with a cryptocurrency-linked money laundering probe.
Officials said searches are being conducted at around 12 premises under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) against Srikrishna Ramesh alias Sriki and other accused persons.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge Calls PM Modi a Terrorist, Later Issues a Clarification

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge raked up a controversy on Tuesday when he called Prime Minister Narendra Modi a "terrorist", while addressing a press conference in Chennai. He made the comments, expected to trigger political controversy during the ongoing election, while criticising the opposition AIADMK over its alliance with BJP, headed by PM Modi.&nbsp;After facing flak from the BJP and opposition parties for his comments on PM Modi, Kharge clarified that he never called the Prime Minister a “terrorist'” but what he meant is that "PM Modi is terrorising people and political parties".&nbsp;Questioning the AIADMK's choice of BJP as an alliance partner for the Tamil Nadu elections to be held on Thursday (April 23), Kharge said, "How these AIADMK people, who themselves put the photo of Annadurai, how can they join Modi? He is a terrorist. His party won't believe in equality and justice. These people are joining with them; it means they are weakening democracy, they are weakening the philosophy of Annadurai, Kamaraj, Periyar, Kaliagnar, Baba Saheb Ambedkar."&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-violated-ceasefire-numerous-times-trump-accuses-iran-ahead-of-islamabad-talks-1776770384825">‘Violated ceasefire numerous times’: Trump accuses Iran ahead of Islamabad talks</a>&nbsp;"The Congress-DMK alliance will continue to deliver welfare, inclusive growth, quality, education, accessible healthcare," he added.&nbsp;Immediately after he made the comment, he was asked to clarify on it in the same conference by the media representatives sitting there to which he said "He (PM Modi) is terrorising people and political parties. I never said he is a terrorist...What I mean, I want to clarify, is that Modi always threatens. The institutions like ED, I-T and CBI are in his hands. He wants to take delimitation also into his hands. Therefore I said , in that context, he is terrorising people and political parties. I never said he is a terrorist.'&nbsp;The comment by Kharge comes just two days after Modi, in an address to the nation, accused the Congress and other opposition parties of defeating a bill on women's reservation in Parliament and state assemblies.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After facing flak from the BJP and opposition parties for his comments on PM Modi, Kharge clarified that he never called the Prime Minister a terrorist.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge raked up a controversy on Tuesday when he called Prime Minister Narendra Modi a "terrorist", while addressing a press conference in Chennai. He made the comments, expected to trigger political controversy during the ongoing election, while criticising the opposition AIADMK over its alliance with BJP, headed by PM Modi. After facing flak from the BJP and opposition parties for his comments on PM Modi, Kharge clarified that he never called the Prime Minister a “terrorist'” but what he meant is that "PM Modi is terrorising people and political parties". Questioning the AIADMK's choice of BJP as an alliance partner for the Tamil Nadu elections to be held on Thursday (April 23), Kharge said, "How these AIADMK people, who themselves put the photo of Annadurai, how can they join Modi? He is a terrorist. His party won't believe in equality and justice. These people are joining with them; it means they are weakening democracy, they are weakening the philosophy of Annadurai, Kamaraj, Periyar, Kaliagnar, Baba Saheb Ambedkar." ALSO READ: ‘Violated ceasefire numerous times’: Trump accuses Iran ahead of Islamabad talks "The Congress-DMK alliance will continue to deliver welfare, inclusive growth, quality, education, accessible healthcare," he added. Immediately after he made the comment, he was asked to clarify on it in the same conference by the media representatives sitting there to which he said "He (PM Modi) is terrorising people and political parties. I never said he is a terrorist...What I mean, I want to clarify, is that Modi always threatens. The institutions like ED, I-T and CBI are in his hands. He wants to take delimitation also into his hands. Therefore I said , in that context, he is terrorising people and political parties. I never said he is a terrorist.' The comment by Kharge comes just two days after Modi, in an address to the nation, accused the Congress and other opposition parties of defeating a bill on women's reservation in Parliament and state assemblies.

After facing flak from the BJP and opposition parties for his comments on PM Modi, Kharge clarified that he never called the Prime Minister a “terrorist".

Mallikarjun Kharge calls PM Modi 'a Terrorist', then backtracks, says I never said...

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Saturday (April 18) targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his recent address to the nation, alleging misuse of official machinery during the Model Code of Conduct.&nbsp;“A desperate and frustrated PM with nothing meaningful to show for the last 12 years turned an official address to the nation into a political speech full of mudslinging and outright lies. The Model Code of Conduct is already in place, and it was clear how PM Modi misused official machinery to attack his opponents. This is a travesty of democracy and the Constitution of India,” Kharge said.&nbsp;Kharge’s remarks came after the defeat of the 131st Constitution Amendment Bill, 2026, in the Lok Sabha on Friday, which stalled the proposed increase in Lok Sabha seats to 850 and delayed the rollout of 33 per cent women’s reservation. Following the setback, Modi launched a sharp attack on opposition parties, accusing them of celebrating the failure of a key reform.&nbsp;Addressing the nation, Modi said parties such as Congress, DMK, TMC and the Samajwadi Party were “happy and celebrating” when the bill failed in Parliament and had “insulted the women of India”. He warned that women would not forgive them for this. “Dynastic parties were laughing after taking away women's rights,” he said.&nbsp;The Prime Minister alleged that opposition parties prioritised politics over public interest. “Due to the opposition parties' narrow and self-serving politics, the mothers and sisters of our nation had to bear the consequences,” he said, while also apologising to the nation’s “mothers and daughters” over the bill’s defeat.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-apologises-to-women-over-quota-bill-setback-slams-congress-as-anti-reform-party-1776526321091">PM Modi apologises to women over quota bill setback, slams Congress as ‘anti-reform party’</a>&nbsp;“Yesterday, crores of women had their eyes on Parliament. The country's women's power was witnessing everything. It deeply pained me to see that when the proposal was defeated, dynastic parties like Congress, DMK, TMC and SP were clapping in joy,” he said.Emphasising the emotional impact, Modi added, “A woman can forget everything, but she never forgets her insult. The behaviour of Congress and its allies in Parliament will remain a lasting pain in every woman's heart.”&nbsp;The bill failed to secure the mandatory two-thirds majority in the Lok Sabha. While the NDA secured 298 votes in favour, the INDIA bloc opposed it with 230 votes, arguing that linking women’s reservation to delimitation could affect the political balance of southern and northeastern states. Despite a simple majority among the 528 members present, the bill fell 54 votes short of the required “special majority”.

Kharge’s remarks came after the defeat of the 131st Constitution Amendment Bill, 2026, in the Lok Sabha on Friday, which stalled the proposed increase in Lok Sabha seats to 850 and delayed the rollout of 33 per cent women’s reservation.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Saturday (April 18) targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his recent address to the nation, alleging misuse of official machinery during the Model Code of Conduct. “A desperate and frustrated PM with nothing meaningful to show for the last 12 years turned an official address to the nation into a political speech full of mudslinging and outright lies. The Model Code of Conduct is already in place, and it was clear how PM Modi misused official machinery to attack his opponents. This is a travesty of democracy and the Constitution of India,” Kharge said. Kharge’s remarks came after the defeat of the 131st Constitution Amendment Bill, 2026, in the Lok Sabha on Friday, which stalled the proposed increase in Lok Sabha seats to 850 and delayed the rollout of 33 per cent women’s reservation. Following the setback, Modi launched a sharp attack on opposition parties, accusing them of celebrating the failure of a key reform. Addressing the nation, Modi said parties such as Congress, DMK, TMC and the Samajwadi Party were “happy and celebrating” when the bill failed in Parliament and had “insulted the women of India”. He warned that women would not forgive them for this. “Dynastic parties were laughing after taking away women's rights,” he said. The Prime Minister alleged that opposition parties prioritised politics over public interest. “Due to the opposition parties' narrow and self-serving politics, the mothers and sisters of our nation had to bear the consequences,” he said, while also apologising to the nation’s “mothers and daughters” over the bill’s defeat. Also Read: PM Modi apologises to women over quota bill setback, slams Congress as ‘anti-reform party’ “Yesterday, crores of women had their eyes on Parliament. The country's women's power was witnessing everything. It deeply pained me to see that when the proposal was defeated, dynastic parties like Congress, DMK, TMC and SP were clapping in joy,” he said. Emphasising the emotional impact, Modi added, “A woman can forget everything, but she never forgets her insult. The behaviour of Congress and its allies in Parliament will remain a lasting pain in every woman's heart.” The bill failed to secure the mandatory two-thirds majority in the Lok Sabha. While the NDA secured 298 votes in favour, the INDIA bloc opposed it with 230 votes, arguing that linking women’s reservation to delimitation could affect the political balance of southern and northeastern states. Despite a simple majority among the 528 members present, the bill fell 54 votes short of the required “special majority”.

Kharge’s remarks came after the defeat of the 131st Constitution Amendment Bill, 2026, in the Lok Sabha on Friday, which stalled the proposed increase in Lok Sabha seats to 850 and delayed the rollout of 33 per cent women’s reservation.

‘Desperate and frustrated PM’: Kharge targets PM Modi over women’s bill defeat speech

Indian parliament's upper house, the Rajya Sabha, on Friday (Apr 17) re-elected Harivansh Narayan Singh as its Deputy Chairman, with the motion moved by Union Minister and Leader of the House JP Nadda and passed by voice vote in the Upper House. "I declare that Shriman Harivansh has been chosen as the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha," said Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman CP Radhakrishnan, following the vote. In keeping with tradition, Harivansh was escorted to the dais and back to his seat by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, JP Nadda, and Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-polls-eps-attacks-stalin-for-black-shirt-drama-over-delimitation-1776401928527">Tamil Nadu polls: EPS attacks Stalin for "black shirt drama" over Delimitation</a><h2>PM Modi, Mallikarjun Kharge welcome Harivansh for third term</h2>Rajya Sabha LoP Kharge, congratulating Harivansh, struck a warm and lightly humorous note. "I would like to congratulate you for the work you have done here. I am getting another chance to sit with you in the House. You are a good neighbour," he said, drawing chuckles from those around him.Prime Minister Modi's felicitation remarks traced Harivansh's journey from a village in Uttar Pradesh to the upper chamber of Parliament, touching on his early roots, his education in Kashi, and his long career before entering politics.Modi noted that the day carried additional significance and said, "Today is April 17, and today is the birth anniversary of our former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar. I hope that today, when you (Harivansh) are taking up this responsibility for the third time, on Chandra Shekhar's birth anniversary."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-calls-out-unacceptable-attacks-on-ships-in-strait-of-hormuz-flags-lost-precious-lives-of-indian-seafarers-1776387875954">India calls out 'unacceptable' attacks on ships in Strait of Hormuz</a><h2>Harivansh-Chandr Shekhar connection</h2>Harivansh has written extensively on Chandra Shekhar, including the book Chandra Shekhar: The Last Icon of Ideological Politics, co-authored with Ravi Dutt Bajpai."The way you have been connected with Chandra Shekhar, your closeness with him — you have been his co-passenger in a way," Modi said. "I think today is a special day for you."Chandra Shekhar, widely known as Jananayak, served as Prime Minister from November 1990 to June 1991, leading a breakaway faction of the Janata Dal with outside support from Congress in a short-lived minority government.&nbsp;

Harivansh Narayan Singh has been re-elected as Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha for a third term, with the motion moved by JP Nadda and passed by voice vote.  After the vote, Harivansh was escorted to the dais by Narendra Modi, Nadda, and Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge.

Indian parliament's upper house, the Rajya Sabha, on Friday (Apr 17) re-elected Harivansh Narayan Singh as its Deputy Chairman, with the motion moved by Union Minister and Leader of the House JP Nadda and passed by voice vote in the Upper House. "I declare that Shriman Harivansh has been chosen as the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha," said Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman CP Radhakrishnan, following the vote. In keeping with tradition, Harivansh was escorted to the dais and back to his seat by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, JP Nadda, and Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge. Also read | Tamil Nadu polls: EPS attacks Stalin for "black shirt drama" over Delimitation PM Modi, Mallikarjun Kharge welcome Harivansh for third term Rajya Sabha LoP Kharge, congratulating Harivansh, struck a warm and lightly humorous note. "I would like to congratulate you for the work you have done here. I am getting another chance to sit with you in the House. You are a good neighbour," he said, drawing chuckles from those around him. Prime Minister Modi's felicitation remarks traced Harivansh's journey from a village in Uttar Pradesh to the upper chamber of Parliament, touching on his early roots, his education in Kashi, and his long career before entering politics. Modi noted that the day carried additional significance and said, "Today is April 17, and today is the birth anniversary of our former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar. I hope that today, when you (Harivansh) are taking up this responsibility for the third time, on Chandra Shekhar's birth anniversary." Also read | India calls out 'unacceptable' attacks on ships in Strait of Hormuz Harivansh-Chandr Shekhar connection Harivansh has written extensively on Chandra Shekhar, including the book Chandra Shekhar: The Last Icon of Ideological Politics, co-authored with Ravi Dutt Bajpai. "The way you have been connected with Chandra Shekhar, your closeness with him — you have been his co-passenger in a way," Modi said. "I think today is a special day for you." Chandra Shekhar, widely known as Jananayak, served as Prime Minister from November 1990 to June 1991, leading a breakaway faction of the Janata Dal with outside support from Congress in a short-lived minority government.

Harivansh Narayan Singh has been re-elected as Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha for a third term, with the motion moved by JP Nadda and passed by voice vote. &nbsp;After the vote, Harivansh was escorted to the dais by Narendra Modi, Nadda, and Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge.

Harivansh re-elected as Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman for a third term; PM Modi lauds 'special day'

Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Wednesday (Apr 8) slammed Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma over his alleged derogatory remarks against the Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha and Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge. Taking to social media, Vadra condemned the BJP leader’s behaviour, calling it “utterly shameful and despicable”.“The Chief Minister of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, has used extremely rude and derogatory language against Congress President and Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, which is utterly shameful and unacceptable,” Vadra wrote on X. She pointed out that Kharge not only a Congress representative but also an enlightened voice for the Dalits and marginalised sections of the nation.“Kharge is one of the senior-most leaders of the country. He is not only a representative of the Congress party but also an enlightened voice for the Dalits and marginalised sections of the nation. By insulting him, the BJP’s Chief Minister has insulted crores of people across the country,” she said.“Prime Minister Narendra Modi must clarify before the nation: Do they agree with this insult to crores of Indians?” she added.<h2>What did Himanta Biswa Sarma say?</h2>Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma had criticised Mallikarjun Kharge after the Congress President demanded clarification from the central government and the foreign minister on the police raid at Congress leader Pawan Khera’s Delhi residence.“Are you crazy? If you don’t know the truth, then why did you put it? You should have asked earlier...First, you should have asked the foreign minister whether it was right or not and that we have received this allegation,” Sarma said.He also compared the situation to killing someone and then offering them medicine. “Kharge is old, and you are still talking like a crazy person,” he said.Earlier, Khera had alleged that CM Sarma’s wife, Riniki Bhuyan Sarma, possessed three passports, including those from India, the UAE, and Egypt. He also claimed that she had undisclosed luxury properties in Dubai and a company in Wyoming, USA.

Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma had criticised Mallikarjun Kharge after the Congress President demanded clarification from the central government and the foreign minister on the police raid at Congress leader Pawan Khera’s Delhi residence.

Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Wednesday (Apr 8) slammed Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma over his alleged derogatory remarks against the Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha and Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge. Taking to social media, Vadra condemned the BJP leader’s behaviour, calling it “utterly shameful and despicable”. “The Chief Minister of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, has used extremely rude and derogatory language against Congress President and Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, which is utterly shameful and unacceptable,” Vadra wrote on X. She pointed out that Kharge not only a Congress representative but also an enlightened voice for the Dalits and marginalised sections of the nation. “Kharge is one of the senior-most leaders of the country. He is not only a representative of the Congress party but also an enlightened voice for the Dalits and marginalised sections of the nation. By insulting him, the BJP’s Chief Minister has insulted crores of people across the country,” she said. “Prime Minister Narendra Modi must clarify before the nation: Do they agree with this insult to crores of Indians?” she added. What did Himanta Biswa Sarma say? Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma had criticised Mallikarjun Kharge after the Congress President demanded clarification from the central government and the foreign minister on the police raid at Congress leader Pawan Khera’s Delhi residence. “Are you crazy? If you don’t know the truth, then why did you put it? You should have asked earlier...First, you should have asked the foreign minister whether it was right or not and that we have received this allegation,” Sarma said. He also compared the situation to killing someone and then offering them medicine. “Kharge is old, and you are still talking like a crazy person,” he said. Earlier, Khera had alleged that CM Sarma’s wife, Riniki Bhuyan Sarma, possessed three passports, including those from India, the UAE, and Egypt. He also claimed that she had undisclosed luxury properties in Dubai and a company in Wyoming, USA.

Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma had criticised Mallikarjun Kharge after the Congress President demanded clarification from the central government and the foreign minister on the police raid at Congress leader Pawan Khera’s Delhi residence.

‘Utterly shameful and unacceptable’: Priyanka Gandhi hits out at Himanta Biswa Sarma over remarks on Kharge

All India Congress Committee (AICC) President Mallikarjun Kharge was admitted to a hospital in Bengaluru on Wednesday morning for medical treatment. Meanwhile, Kharge is scheduled to visit Kohima on October 7 and address a public rally at Naga Solidarity Park. Lok Sabha MP S Supongmeren Jamir, President of the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee, made the announcement during a press conference at Congress Bhavan in Kohima. According to Jamir, Congress expects a gathering of at least 10,000 people for the rally. The event, themed around "Safe Democracy, Safe Secularism, and Safe Nagaland," will also highlight key issues such as youth employment, entrepreneurship, good governance, and road connectivity. The statement said that the rally will be followed by separate meetings between Kharge and senior members of the Congress Political Affairs Committee, Pro-Committee, and presidents of the District Congress Committees (DCCs). The Congress MP emphasised that the rally is not only a party function but also a political platform to address challenges facing Nagaland and the Northeast. He appealed to citizens, especially minorities, to join the rally and voice their concerns, which he said would be carried forward by regional leaders. Kharge will be accompanied by national leaders, including Congress General Secretary (Organisation) KC Venugopal and the party's Nagaland in-charge, MP from Odisha, Saptagiri Sankar Ulaka, and other leaders. Jamir underlined that the rally is the beginning of a broader Congress campaign in the region, with the party taking a firm stand on issues such as the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), governance, and constitutional rights. He noted that the Congress high command is serious about addressing these concerns and may invite other political parties to join the movement on a common platform to safeguard democracy, secularism, and the future of Nagaland. Akuonuo Miachieo, Co-Convener of the Organising Committee and General Secretary of the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC), appealed for cooperation and encouraged all citizens to ensure that the rally's message reaches every household in Nagaland.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge was admitted to the hospital while he was scheduled to visit Kohima on October 7 and address a public rally at Naga Solidarity Park. 

All India Congress Committee (AICC) President Mallikarjun Kharge was admitted to a hospital in Bengaluru on Wednesday morning for medical treatment. Meanwhile, Kharge is scheduled to visit Kohima on October 7 and address a public rally at Naga Solidarity Park. Lok Sabha MP S Supongmeren Jamir, President of the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee, made the announcement during a press conference at Congress Bhavan in Kohima. According to Jamir, Congress expects a gathering of at least 10,000 people for the rally. The event, themed around "Safe Democracy, Safe Secularism, and Safe Nagaland," will also highlight key issues such as youth employment, entrepreneurship, good governance, and road connectivity. The statement said that the rally will be followed by separate meetings between Kharge and senior members of the Congress Political Affairs Committee, Pro-Committee, and presidents of the District Congress Committees (DCCs). The Congress MP emphasised that the rally is not only a party function but also a political platform to address challenges facing Nagaland and the Northeast. He appealed to citizens, especially minorities, to join the rally and voice their concerns, which he said would be carried forward by regional leaders. Kharge will be accompanied by national leaders, including Congress General Secretary (Organisation) KC Venugopal and the party's Nagaland in-charge, MP from Odisha, Saptagiri Sankar Ulaka, and other leaders. Jamir underlined that the rally is the beginning of a broader Congress campaign in the region, with the party taking a firm stand on issues such as the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), governance, and constitutional rights. He noted that the Congress high command is serious about addressing these concerns and may invite other political parties to join the movement on a common platform to safeguard democracy, secularism, and the future of Nagaland. Akuonuo Miachieo, Co-Convener of the Organising Committee and General Secretary of the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC), appealed for cooperation and encouraged all citizens to ensure that the rally's message reaches every household in Nagaland. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge was admitted to the hospital while he was scheduled to visit Kohima on October 7 and address a public rally at Naga Solidarity Park.&nbsp;

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge admitted Bengaluru hospital ahead of Kohima rally

In his Republic Day address, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge took aims at the BJP-led government, accusing it of attacking the Indian Constitution and undermining crucial national institutions. He condemned the government for fostering divisions in society through what he described as a "vicious, hateful agenda."
<h2>Constitution's core principles at risk &nbsp;</h2>
Kharge highlighted the growing threats to the foundational values of the Constitution&mdash;justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. He warned, &ldquo;Every sacred tenet of the Constitution is being shredded into pieces by an authoritarian regime.&rdquo;
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/republic-day-2025-know-full-schedule-special-guests-performances-and-more-8653471">Republic Day 2025: Know full schedule, special guests, performances and more</a>
<h2>Interference in institutions and erosion of federalism</h2>
The Congress leader pointed to increased political interference in independent institutions, stressing that federalism was being disregarded.&nbsp;
<h2>Concerns over Parliament and media freedom&nbsp;</h2>
Kharge expressed alarm over the functioning of Parliament, accusing the BJP of fostering a "tyrannical" atmosphere. He also criticised the government's control over the media, accusing it of turning the latter into a propaganda tool while stifling dissenting voices.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/republic-day-2025-live-us-extends-greetings-to-india-on-republic-day-8654335">India celebrates its 76th Republic Day. A look at all the updates</a>
<h2>Rising attacks on marginalised communities</h2>
Kharge condemned the growing violence against minorities and marginalised communities, particularly in places like Manipur. He said that the ongoing violence was being met with a lack of accountability from the government.
<h2>Call to defend the Constitution</h2>
Kharge concluded his address with a powerful call to action, urging citizens to stand up for the Constitution and its values. He emphasised that defending these ideals would be the best way to honour the sacrifices of India&rsquo;s founders.
&nbsp;He said, &ldquo;It is high time we preserve and protect the ideas and ideals of our Constitution &ndash; justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity&hellip; Be ready to make every sacrifice to protect the Constitution. This will be the true tribute to our ancestors.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

India News | Kharge highlighted the growing threats to the foundational values of the Constitution—justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. He warned, “Every sacred tenet of the Constitution is being shredded into pieces by an authoritarian regime.”

In his Republic Day address, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge took aims at the BJP-led government, accusing it of attacking the Indian Constitution and undermining crucial national institutions. He condemned the government for fostering divisions in society through what he described as a "vicious, hateful agenda." Constitution's core principles at risk Kharge highlighted the growing threats to the foundational values of the Constitution—justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. He warned, “Every sacred tenet of the Constitution is being shredded into pieces by an authoritarian regime.” Also Read | Republic Day 2025: Know full schedule, special guests, performances and more Interference in institutions and erosion of federalism The Congress leader pointed to increased political interference in independent institutions, stressing that federalism was being disregarded. Concerns over Parliament and media freedom Kharge expressed alarm over the functioning of Parliament, accusing the BJP of fostering a "tyrannical" atmosphere. He also criticised the government's control over the media, accusing it of turning the latter into a propaganda tool while stifling dissenting voices. Also Read | India celebrates its 76th Republic Day. A look at all the updates Rising attacks on marginalised communities Kharge condemned the growing violence against minorities and marginalised communities, particularly in places like Manipur. He said that the ongoing violence was being met with a lack of accountability from the government. Call to defend the Constitution Kharge concluded his address with a powerful call to action, urging citizens to stand up for the Constitution and its values. He emphasised that defending these ideals would be the best way to honour the sacrifices of India’s founders. He said, “It is high time we preserve and protect the ideas and ideals of our Constitution – justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity… Be ready to make every sacrifice to protect the Constitution. This will be the true tribute to our ancestors.” (With inputs from agencies)

India: Kharge slams BJP for undermining Constitution, institutions in his Republic Day address

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has strongly criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his handling of the violence in Manipur. In a post on X, Kharge wrote, &ldquo;The BJP is the matchstick which burnt Manipur!&rdquo;
The violence, which has been ongoing since May 2023, involves clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities. Kharge further hit out at Modi saying that his last visit to Manipur was in January 2022, just to seek votes for the BJP. &ldquo;Narendra Modi ji, your last visit to Manipur was for seeking votes for the BJP, way back in January 2022. Violence erupted in the state on May 3, 2023,&rdquo; Kharge said.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
.<a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji, Your last visit to Manipur was for seeking votes for BJP, way back in January 2022. Violence erupted in the state on 3rd May 2023. More than 600 days have passed, and media reports through satellite images have now revealed that villages after villages&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/kVVLzb4Tw6">pic.twitter.com/kVVLzb4Tw6</a>
&mdash; Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) <a href="https://twitter.com/kharge/status/1875422975710695492?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-dismisses-reports-of-new-delhi-link-to-a-failed-plot-to-impeach-maldivian-president-mohamed-muizzu-8589147">India dismisses reports of New Delhi link to a failed plot to impeach Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu</a>
<h2>PM Modi&rsquo;s silence on Manipur under fire</h2>
The Congress has repeatedly criticised Modi for not visiting the state after the violence erupted. The party argues that the Prime Minister&rsquo;s absence and lack of leadership have made the situation worse. The violence in Manipur, which has claimed many lives and caused widespread displacement, remains unresolved.
Violence flared again on Friday in Kangpokpi district, where a mob attacked the office of the district&rsquo;s police chief. The attack followed protests over the continued presence of central security forces in Saibol village, near Imphal East. Several people, including police officers and protesters, were injured during the confrontation.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-uapa-tribunal-upholds-ban-on-khalistani-terrorist-pannuns-sikhs-for-justice-8591013">India: UAPA Tribunal upholds ban on Khalistani terrorist Pannun's Sikhs For Justice</a>
<h2>Manipur CM apologises</h2>
In the midst of the violence, Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh expressed regret over the bloodshed and large-scale displacement. He apologised for the hardships caused but also expressed hope that peace would return soon. &ldquo;Many people left their homes. I feel regret. I apologise. But now, I hope after seeing the last three to four months&rsquo; progress towards peace, I believe by 2025, normalcy will be restored in the state,&rdquo; Singh said.
(with inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

India | The Congress has repeatedly criticised Modi for not visiting the state after the violence began. The party argues that the Prime Minister’s absence and lack of leadership have made the situation worse. 

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has strongly criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his handling of the violence in Manipur. In a post on X, Kharge wrote, “The BJP is the matchstick which burnt Manipur!” The violence, which has been ongoing since May 2023, involves clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities. Kharge further hit out at Modi saying that his last visit to Manipur was in January 2022, just to seek votes for the BJP. “Narendra Modi ji, your last visit to Manipur was for seeking votes for the BJP, way back in January 2022. Violence erupted in the state on May 3, 2023,” Kharge said. .@narendramodi ji, Your last visit to Manipur was for seeking votes for BJP, way back in January 2022. Violence erupted in the state on 3rd May 2023. More than 600 days have passed, and media reports through satellite images have now revealed that villages after villages… pic.twitter.com/kVVLzb4Tw6 — Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) January 4, 2025 Also read | India dismisses reports of New Delhi link to a failed plot to impeach Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu PM Modi’s silence on Manipur under fire The Congress has repeatedly criticised Modi for not visiting the state after the violence erupted. The party argues that the Prime Minister’s absence and lack of leadership have made the situation worse. The violence in Manipur, which has claimed many lives and caused widespread displacement, remains unresolved. Violence flared again on Friday in Kangpokpi district, where a mob attacked the office of the district’s police chief. The attack followed protests over the continued presence of central security forces in Saibol village, near Imphal East. Several people, including police officers and protesters, were injured during the confrontation. Also read | India: UAPA Tribunal upholds ban on Khalistani terrorist Pannun's Sikhs For Justice Manipur CM apologises In the midst of the violence, Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh expressed regret over the bloodshed and large-scale displacement. He apologised for the hardships caused but also expressed hope that peace would return soon. “Many people left their homes. I feel regret. I apologise. But now, I hope after seeing the last three to four months’ progress towards peace, I believe by 2025, normalcy will be restored in the state,” Singh said. (with inputs from agencies)

'BJP is the matchstick which burnt Manipur,' Congress Prez Kharge slams PM Modi amid ongoing violence

The Indian National Congress (INC) on Saturday (Dec 28) criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over the cremation location of former prime minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Manmohan+Singh" rel="dofollow">Manmohan Singh</a>, who passed away at the age of 92 on Thursday.&nbsp;
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi accused the Centre of its decision to conduct the cremation of the former prime minister at Nigambodh Ghat instead of a designated memorial site.&nbsp;
Gandhi called it a "grave insult" to Manmohan Singh, as Congress president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mha-centre-allocates-space-for-dr-manmohan-singhs-memorial-8572129">Mallikarjun Kharge</a> on Friday requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to hold Singh's last rites "at his final resting place that would be a sacrosanct venue for memorial of the great son of India."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/manmohan-singh-funeral-final-rites-today-at-nigambodh-ghat-in-delhi-8572054">Manmohan Singh Funeral: Last rites held at Nigambodh ghat in Delhi</a>
Rahul Gandhi on Saturday took to X, saying, "The great son of Mother India and the first Prime Minister of the Sikh community, Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji, has been totally insulted by the present government by performing his last rites at Nigambodh Ghat.&rdquo;
"Till date, respecting the dignity of all former Prime Ministers, their last rites were performed at authorized burial sites so that every person could have the last darshan and pay homage without any inconvenience," he added.&nbsp;
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भारत माता के महान सपूत और सिख समुदाय के पहले प्रधानमंत्री डॉ मनमोहन सिंह जी का अंतिम संस्कार आज निगमबोध घाट पर करवाकर वर्तमान सरकार द्वारा उनका सरासर अपमान किया गया है। एक दशक के लिए वह भारत के प्रधानमंत्री रहे, उनके दौर में देश आर्थिक महाशक्ति बना और उनकी नीतियां आज भी देश के&hellip;
&mdash; Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1872952908502974976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
Congress MP from Wayanad Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also said that the government has "not done justice" to the dignity of the post of former prime minister and the personality of Manmohan Singh.&nbsp;
She further said that the government should have thought "beyond politics" in the matter.&nbsp;
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पूर्व प्रधानमंत्री डॉ मनमोहन सिंह जी के अंतिम संस्कार के लिए यथोचित स्थान न उपलब्ध कराकर सरकार ने पूर्व प्रधानमंत्री के पद की गरिमा, मनमोहन सिंह जी की शख्सियत, उनकी विरासत और खुद्दार सिख समुदाय के साथ न्याय नहीं किया। इससे पहले सभी पूर्व प्रधानमंत्रियों को सर्वोच्च सम्मान और&hellip;
&mdash; Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/priyankagandhi/status/1872964808301015183?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
<h2>'New low in politics': BJP</h2>
The BJP criticised the Congress leader's remarks, calling it "shameful" and "unfortunate". He reiterated the party's belief in "dignity in death".&nbsp;
While speaking at a press conference, Patra said, "This is a new low in politics of India, thanks to the Congress party. The kind of politics Congress is doing, especially Rahul Gandhi - who has tweeted about the cremation - is shameful."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dr-manmohan-singh-was-a-close-friend-of-mauritius-says-fm-dhananjay-ramphul-8573139">Dr Manmohan Singh was a close friend of Mauritius, says FM&nbsp;Dhananjay&nbsp;Ramphul</a>
He added that the government after the demise of the former PM Manmohan Singh had written a letter to the Congress and Singh's family in which the cabinet has expressed to build a memorial in his name so that the country and the world remember him for his positive works.
The BJP also accused Congress of hypocrisy and pointed out past instances of alleged disrespect toward its own leaders, including former Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao and former President Pranab Mukherjee.
Manmohan Singh, 92, passed away on Thursday night at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi, leaving the nation in mourning.
The last rites of India's former prime minister were held on Saturday (Dec 28) at 11:45 AM (local time) at New Delhi&rsquo;s Nigambodh Ghat.&nbsp;
President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, and other leaders, along with defence chiefs, attended the ceremony. Bhutan's King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Mauritius Foreign Minister Dhananjay Ramful also paid their respects.
(With inputs from agencies)

India News: Rahul Gandhi accused the Centre of its decision to conduct the cremation of the former prime minister at Nigambodh Ghat instead of a designated memorial site. 

The Indian National Congress (INC) on Saturday (Dec 28) criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over the cremation location of former prime minister Manmohan Singh, who passed away at the age of 92 on Thursday. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi accused the Centre of its decision to conduct the cremation of the former prime minister at Nigambodh Ghat instead of a designated memorial site. Gandhi called it a "grave insult" to Manmohan Singh, as Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Friday requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to hold Singh's last rites "at his final resting place that would be a sacrosanct venue for memorial of the great son of India." Also read: Manmohan Singh Funeral: Last rites held at Nigambodh ghat in Delhi Rahul Gandhi on Saturday took to X, saying, "The great son of Mother India and the first Prime Minister of the Sikh community, Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji, has been totally insulted by the present government by performing his last rites at Nigambodh Ghat.” "Till date, respecting the dignity of all former Prime Ministers, their last rites were performed at authorized burial sites so that every person could have the last darshan and pay homage without any inconvenience," he added. भारत माता के महान सपूत और सिख समुदाय के पहले प्रधानमंत्री डॉ मनमोहन सिंह जी का अंतिम संस्कार आज निगमबोध घाट पर करवाकर वर्तमान सरकार द्वारा उनका सरासर अपमान किया गया है। एक दशक के लिए वह भारत के प्रधानमंत्री रहे, उनके दौर में देश आर्थिक महाशक्ति बना और उनकी नीतियां आज भी देश के… — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) December 28, 2024 Congress MP from Wayanad Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also said that the government has "not done justice" to the dignity of the post of former prime minister and the personality of Manmohan Singh. She further said that the government should have thought "beyond politics" in the matter. पूर्व प्रधानमंत्री डॉ मनमोहन सिंह जी के अंतिम संस्कार के लिए यथोचित स्थान न उपलब्ध कराकर सरकार ने पूर्व प्रधानमंत्री के पद की गरिमा, मनमोहन सिंह जी की शख्सियत, उनकी विरासत और खुद्दार सिख समुदाय के साथ न्याय नहीं किया। इससे पहले सभी पूर्व प्रधानमंत्रियों को सर्वोच्च सम्मान और… — Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) December 28, 2024 'New low in politics': BJP The BJP criticised the Congress leader's remarks, calling it "shameful" and "unfortunate". He reiterated the party's belief in "dignity in death". While speaking at a press conference, Patra said, "This is a new low in politics of India, thanks to the Congress party. The kind of politics Congress is doing, especially Rahul Gandhi - who has tweeted about the cremation - is shameful." Also read: Dr Manmohan Singh was a close friend of Mauritius, says FM Dhananjay Ramphul He added that the government after the demise of the former PM Manmohan Singh had written a letter to the Congress and Singh's family in which the cabinet has expressed to build a memorial in his name so that the country and the world remember him for his positive works. The BJP also accused Congress of hypocrisy and pointed out past instances of alleged disrespect toward its own leaders, including former Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao and former President Pranab Mukherjee. Manmohan Singh, 92, passed away on Thursday night at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi, leaving the nation in mourning. The last rites of India's former prime minister were held on Saturday (Dec 28) at 11:45 AM (local time) at New Delhi’s Nigambodh Ghat. President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, and other leaders, along with defence chiefs, attended the ceremony. Bhutan's King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Mauritius Foreign Minister Dhananjay Ramful also paid their respects. (With inputs from agencies)

'Centre insulted Manmohan Singh', Rahul Gandhi slams BJP over funeral site

Former Indian prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh died&nbsp;at the age of 92 on Thursday (Dec 26). Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolence as he took to the social media platform X and said the nation&nbsp;mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders. Modi said Singh rose&nbsp;from humble origins and became a respected economist.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji. Rising from humble origins, he rose to become a respected economist. He served in various government positions as well, including as Finance Minister, leaving a strong imprint on our economic&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/clW00Yv6oP">pic.twitter.com/clW00Yv6oP</a>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1872328464658808947?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2024</a></blockquote>

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Modi further added, "He served in various government positions as well, including as Finance Minister, leaving a strong imprint on our economic policy over the years. His interventions in Parliament were also insightful. As our Prime Minister, he made extensive efforts to improve people&rsquo;s lives."
<h3>Jagdeep Dhankhar</h3>
Indian Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar also mourned the death of the "distinguished economist who transformed India's economic landscape".&nbsp;
On his X account, Dhankar wrote, "As the Vice-President of India, I had the privilege to engage in meaningful, insightful interactions with Dr. Singh at his residence. His profound understanding of the economy, gentle demeanour and unwavering commitment to India's progress will forever be etched in my memory.".
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Deeply pained to learn about the passing of Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji, former Prime Minister and a distinguished economist who transformed India's economic landscape. A Padma Vibhushan awardee and architect of India's economic liberalisation in 1991, he boldly steered our nation&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/28A6pKYjvK">pic.twitter.com/28A6pKYjvK</a>&mdash; Vice-President of India (@VPIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1872329137131577582?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2024</a></blockquote>

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&nbsp;
<h3>Mallikarjun Kharge</h3>
Congress president and Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, said in a post on X, "Undoubtedly, history shall judge you kindly, Dr. Manmohan Singh ji!"
Kharge said&nbsp;with the passing of Singh, the country has lost "a visionary statesman, a leader of unimpeachable integrity, and an economist of unparalleled stature".&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Undoubtedly, history shall judge you kindly, Dr. Manmohan Singh ji! With the passing of the Former Prime Minister, India has lost a visionary statesman, a leader of unimpeachable integrity, and an economist of unparalleled stature. His policy of Economic Liberalisation and&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/BvMZh3MFXS">pic.twitter.com/BvMZh3MFXS</a>&mdash; Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) <a href="https://twitter.com/kharge/status/1872329714523877625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2024</a></blockquote>

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He further wrote, "I mourn the loss of a lifelong senior colleague, a gentle intellectual and a humble soul who embodied the aspirations of India, having risen through the ranks with unwavering dedication." 
<h3>Amit Shah </h3>
India's Home Minister Amit Shah wrote, "From being the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India to the Finance Minister of the country and as the Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh played an important role in the governance of the country."&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
पूर्व प्रधानमंत्री डॉ. मनमोहन सिंह जी के निधन की सूचना अत्यंत दुःखद है। भारतीय रिजर्व बैंक में गवर्नर से लेकर देश के वित्त मंत्री और प्रधानमंत्री के रूप में डॉ. मनमोहन सिंह जी ने देश की शासन व्यवस्था में महत्त्वपूर्ण भूमिका निभाई। दुःख की इस घड़ी में उनके परिजनों व समर्थकों के&hellip;
&mdash; Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1872330890002473021?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2024</a></blockquote>

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<h3>Droupadi Murmu</h3>
President Droupadi Murmu paid&nbsp;homage to Singh and wrote, "Manmohan Singh Ji was one of those rare politicians who also straddled the worlds of academia and administration with equal ease."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh Ji was one of those rare politicians who also straddled the worlds of academia and administration with equal ease. In his various roles in public offices, he made critical contributions to reforming Indian economy. He will always be&hellip;
&mdash; President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1872335549497032850?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2024</a></blockquote>

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<h3>Rahul Gandhi </h3>
Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi took to X and wrote, "Manmohan Singh Ji led India with immense wisdom and integrity. His humility and deep understanding of economics inspired the nation." 
He further expressed his condolences to Singh's family and wife. 
In his X post, Gandhi further wrote, "I have lost a mentor and guide. Millions of us who admired him will remember him with the utmost pride." 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Manmohan Singh Ji led India with immense wisdom and integrity. His humility and deep understanding of economics inspired the nation. My heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Kaur and the family. I have lost a mentor and guide. Millions of us who admired him will remember him with the&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/bYT5o1ZN2R">pic.twitter.com/bYT5o1ZN2R</a>
&mdash; Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1872334963229540738?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2024</a></blockquote>

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(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

Former Indian prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh died at the age of 91 on Thursday (Dec 26). Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences. 

Former Indian prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh died at the age of 92 on Thursday (Dec 26). Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolence as he took to the social media platform X and said the nation mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders. Modi said Singh rose from humble origins and became a respected economist. India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji. Rising from humble origins, he rose to become a respected economist. He served in various government positions as well, including as Finance Minister, leaving a strong imprint on our economic… pic.twitter.com/clW00Yv6oP— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 26, 2024 Modi further added, "He served in various government positions as well, including as Finance Minister, leaving a strong imprint on our economic policy over the years. His interventions in Parliament were also insightful. As our Prime Minister, he made extensive efforts to improve people’s lives." Jagdeep Dhankhar Indian Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar also mourned the death of the "distinguished economist who transformed India's economic landscape". On his X account, Dhankar wrote, "As the Vice-President of India, I had the privilege to engage in meaningful, insightful interactions with Dr. Singh at his residence. His profound understanding of the economy, gentle demeanour and unwavering commitment to India's progress will forever be etched in my memory.". Deeply pained to learn about the passing of Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji, former Prime Minister and a distinguished economist who transformed India's economic landscape. A Padma Vibhushan awardee and architect of India's economic liberalisation in 1991, he boldly steered our nation… pic.twitter.com/28A6pKYjvK— Vice-President of India (@VPIndia) December 26, 2024 Mallikarjun Kharge Congress president and Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, said in a post on X, "Undoubtedly, history shall judge you kindly, Dr. Manmohan Singh ji!" Kharge said with the passing of Singh, the country has lost "a visionary statesman, a leader of unimpeachable integrity, and an economist of unparalleled stature". Undoubtedly, history shall judge you kindly, Dr. Manmohan Singh ji! With the passing of the Former Prime Minister, India has lost a visionary statesman, a leader of unimpeachable integrity, and an economist of unparalleled stature. His policy of Economic Liberalisation and… pic.twitter.com/BvMZh3MFXS— Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) December 26, 2024 He further wrote, "I mourn the loss of a lifelong senior colleague, a gentle intellectual and a humble soul who embodied the aspirations of India, having risen through the ranks with unwavering dedication." Amit Shah India's Home Minister Amit Shah wrote, "From being the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India to the Finance Minister of the country and as the Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh played an important role in the governance of the country." पूर्व प्रधानमंत्री डॉ. मनमोहन सिंह जी के निधन की सूचना अत्यंत दुःखद है। भारतीय रिजर्व बैंक में गवर्नर से लेकर देश के वित्त मंत्री और प्रधानमंत्री के रूप में डॉ. मनमोहन सिंह जी ने देश की शासन व्यवस्था में महत्त्वपूर्ण भूमिका निभाई। दुःख की इस घड़ी में उनके परिजनों व समर्थकों के… — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) December 26, 2024 Droupadi Murmu President Droupadi Murmu paid homage to Singh and wrote, "Manmohan Singh Ji was one of those rare politicians who also straddled the worlds of academia and administration with equal ease." Former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh Ji was one of those rare politicians who also straddled the worlds of academia and administration with equal ease. In his various roles in public offices, he made critical contributions to reforming Indian economy. He will always be… — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) December 26, 2024 Rahul Gandhi Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi took to X and wrote, "Manmohan Singh Ji led India with immense wisdom and integrity. His humility and deep understanding of economics inspired the nation." He further expressed his condolences to Singh's family and wife. In his X post, Gandhi further wrote, "I have lost a mentor and guide. Millions of us who admired him will remember him with the utmost pride." Manmohan Singh Ji led India with immense wisdom and integrity. His humility and deep understanding of economics inspired the nation. My heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Kaur and the family. I have lost a mentor and guide. Millions of us who admired him will remember him with the… pic.twitter.com/bYT5o1ZN2R — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) December 26, 2024 (With inputs from agencies)

One of most distinguished leaders: PM Modi, Rahul Gandhi condole Manmohan Singh's demise

New Delhi
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With just a few days left for the Winter Session of the Indian Parliament to conclude, Home Minister Amit Shah faced severe criticism from opposition lawmakers over his remarks on Dalit icon Dr BR Ambedkar- which he made on Tuesday (Dec 17) during a debate on the Constitution in the Rajya Sabha. 
On Wednesday, Union Home Minister Shah responded to the opposition criticism by lashing out at the Congress party. Addressing a press conference, Shah said that the Congress had been presenting facts about his speech in the Rajya Sabha in a distorted manner.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/if-cong-and-its-rotten-ecosystem-indian-pm-modi-responds-to-oppn-criticising-shah-for-remarks-on-ambedkar-784953">Indian PM Modi responds to Oppn criticising Shah's remarks on Ambedkar</a>
"...Since yesterday, Congress has been presenting the facts in a distorted way and I condemn it... Congress is anti-BR Ambedkar, it is against reservation and the Constitution," Shah told reporters. 
<h2>'Discussion should always be held based on facts'</h2>
Shah told reporters it was obvious that political parties and people would have different points of view on different issues. "But the discussion should always be held based on facts," he added.
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah says, "...My statement was presented in a distorted manner. Earlier they made PM Narendra Modi's edited statements public. When the elections were going on, my statement was edited using AI. And today they are presenting my statement… <a href="https://t.co/Br3AGEARqQ">pic.twitter.com/Br3AGEARqQ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1869358723426369678?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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"...My statement was presented in a distorted manner. Earlier they (the opposition/Congress) made PM Narendra Modi's edited statements public. When the elections were going on, my statement was edited using AI. And today they are presenting my statement in a distorted manner. I also want to request the media to put my full statement in front of the public. I belong to a party which can never insult Ambedkar ji," the Indian home minister further said.
He pointed out that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has always tried to follow Ambedkar's principles. 
Amid Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge calling for his (Shah's) resignation from the post of the home minister, Shah said, "Kharge ji is asking for my resignation. If it would have made him happy, I would have resigned, but it will not end his problems because he will have to sit in the same place (in the opposition) for the next 15 years..."
<h2>What did Amit Shah say in the Rajya Sabha?</h2>
While addressing the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday, Shah took a swipe at the opposition by saying it had become a fashion to take the name of Ambedkar repeatedly.
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: On opposition's protest against him, Union Home Minister Amit Shah says, "...I would have been happy if they had challenged the facts presented in my speech. Every word of my speech is factual and taken from history. That is why they are making such efforts by… <a href="https://t.co/86iQttJb8U">pic.twitter.com/86iQttJb8U</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1869365082901405751?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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"Abhi ek fashion ho gaya hai - Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar. Itna naam agar bhagwan ka lete to saat janmon tak swarg mil jata (It has become a fashion to say Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar'. If they (opposition) had taken God's name so many times, they would have got a place in heaven)," Shah had said.
"Take his name 100 times more, but I want to say what are your sentiments about him," Shah added and pointed out that Ambedkar had to resign from the first Cabinet following disagreement with the Jawaharlal Nehru government.

Home Minister Amit Shah faced severe criticism from opposition lawmakers over his remarks on Dalit icon Dr BR Ambedkar- which he made on Tuesday (Dec 17) during a debate on the Constitution in the Rajya Sabha. 



New Delhi With just a few days left for the Winter Session of the Indian Parliament to conclude, Home Minister Amit Shah faced severe criticism from opposition lawmakers over his remarks on Dalit icon Dr BR Ambedkar- which he made on Tuesday (Dec 17) during a debate on the Constitution in the Rajya Sabha. On Wednesday, Union Home Minister Shah responded to the opposition criticism by lashing out at the Congress party. Addressing a press conference, Shah said that the Congress had been presenting facts about his speech in the Rajya Sabha in a distorted manner. Also read | Indian PM Modi responds to Oppn criticising Shah's remarks on Ambedkar "...Since yesterday, Congress has been presenting the facts in a distorted way and I condemn it... Congress is anti-BR Ambedkar, it is against reservation and the Constitution," Shah told reporters. 'Discussion should always be held based on facts' Shah told reporters it was obvious that political parties and people would have different points of view on different issues. "But the discussion should always be held based on facts," he added. #WATCH | Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah says, "...My statement was presented in a distorted manner. Earlier they made PM Narendra Modi's edited statements public. When the elections were going on, my statement was edited using AI. And today they are presenting my statement… pic.twitter.com/Br3AGEARqQ — ANI (@ANI) December 18, 2024 × "...My statement was presented in a distorted manner. Earlier they (the opposition/Congress) made PM Narendra Modi's edited statements public. When the elections were going on, my statement was edited using AI. And today they are presenting my statement in a distorted manner. I also want to request the media to put my full statement in front of the public. I belong to a party which can never insult Ambedkar ji," the Indian home minister further said. He pointed out that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has always tried to follow Ambedkar's principles. Amid Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge calling for his (Shah's) resignation from the post of the home minister, Shah said, "Kharge ji is asking for my resignation. If it would have made him happy, I would have resigned, but it will not end his problems because he will have to sit in the same place (in the opposition) for the next 15 years..." What did Amit Shah say in the Rajya Sabha? While addressing the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday, Shah took a swipe at the opposition by saying it had become a fashion to take the name of Ambedkar repeatedly. #WATCH | Delhi: On opposition's protest against him, Union Home Minister Amit Shah says, "...I would have been happy if they had challenged the facts presented in my speech. Every word of my speech is factual and taken from history. That is why they are making such efforts by… pic.twitter.com/86iQttJb8U — ANI (@ANI) December 18, 2024 × "Abhi ek fashion ho gaya hai - Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar. Itna naam agar bhagwan ka lete to saat janmon tak swarg mil jata (It has become a fashion to say Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar'. If they (opposition) had taken God's name so many times, they would have got a place in heaven)," Shah had said. "Take his name 100 times more, but I want to say what are your sentiments about him," Shah added and pointed out that Ambedkar had to resign from the first Cabinet following disagreement with the Jawaharlal Nehru government.

'Congress is anti-Ambedkar': Amit Shah responds to Oppn criticism of his remarks on Dalit icon

With just a few days left for the Winter Session of the Indian Parliament to conclude, Home Minister Amit Shah faced severe criticism from opposition lawmakers over his remarks on Dalit icon Dr BR Ambedkar- which he made on Tuesday (Dec 17) during a debate on the Constitution in the Rajya Sabha.

With just a few days left for the Winter Session of the Indian Parliament to conclude, Home Minister Amit Shah faced severe criticism from opposition lawmakers over his remarks on Dalit icon Dr BR Ambedkar- which he made on Tuesday (Dec 17) during a debate on the Constitution in the Rajya Sabha. On Wednesday, Union Home Minister Shah responded to the opposition criticism by lashing out at the Congress party. Addressing a press conference, Shah said that the Congress had been presenting facts about his speech in the Rajya Sabha in a distorted manner. Also read | Indian PM Modi responds to Oppn criticising Shah's remarks on Ambedkar "...Since yesterday, Congress has been presenting the facts in a distorted way and I condemn it... Congress is anti-BR Ambedkar, it is against reservation and the Constitution," Shah told reporters. 'Discussion should always be held based on facts' Shah told reporters it was obvious that political parties and people would have different points of view on different issues. "But the discussion should always be held based on facts," he added. #WATCH | Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah says, "...My statement was presented in a distorted manner. Earlier they made PM Narendra Modi's edited statements public. When the elections were going on, my statement was edited using AI. And today they are presenting my statement… pic.twitter.com/Br3AGEARqQ — ANI (@ANI) December 18, 2024 × "...My statement was presented in a distorted manner. Earlier they (the opposition/Congress) made PM Narendra Modi's edited statements public. When the elections were going on, my statement was edited using AI. And today they are presenting my statement in a distorted manner. I also want to request the media to put my full statement in front of the public. I belong to a party which can never insult Ambedkar ji," the Indian home minister further said. He pointed out that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has always tried to follow Ambedkar's principles. Amid Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge calling for his (Shah's) resignation from the post of the home minister, Shah said, "Kharge ji is asking for my resignation. If it would have made him happy, I would have resigned, but it will not end his problems because he will have to sit in the same place (in the opposition) for the next 15 years..." What did Amit Shah say in the Rajya Sabha? While addressing the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday, Shah took a swipe at the opposition by saying it had become a fashion to take the name of Ambedkar repeatedly. #WATCH | Delhi: On opposition's protest against him, Union Home Minister Amit Shah says, "...I would have been happy if they had challenged the facts presented in my speech. Every word of my speech is factual and taken from history. That is why they are making such efforts by… pic.twitter.com/86iQttJb8U — ANI (@ANI) December 18, 2024 × "Abhi ek fashion ho gaya hai - Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar. Itna naam agar bhagwan ka lete to saat janmon tak swarg mil jata (It has become a fashion to say Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar'. If they (opposition) had taken God's name so many times, they would have got a place in heaven)," Shah had said. "Take his name 100 times more, but I want to say what are your sentiments about him," Shah added and pointed out that Ambedkar had to resign from the first Cabinet following disagreement with the Jawaharlal Nehru government.

WION is tracking all updates on the ongoing crisis in West Asia. At the time of writing the top 10 world news, United States (US) Secretary of State Antony Blinken would be on Thursday (Dec 12) visiting Jordan and Turkey for talks on the current situation in Syria.

Taliban minister Khalil Haqqani was killed in an explosion in Kabul on Wednesday.&nbsp;Khalil was a senior member of the Haqqani family, one of the most influential factions within the Taliban.&nbsp;

In other news from around the world, Indian opposition party Congress' President Mallikarjun Kharge claimed that the Rajya Sabha (the upper house of Parliament) was being run by "politics and not rules," as he accused Rajya Sabha Chairperson Jagdeep Dhankar of targeting opposition and praising the government.

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WION is tracking all updates on the ongoing crisis in West Asia. At the time of writing the top 10 world news, United States (US) Secretary of State Antony Blinken would be on Thursday (Dec 12) visiting Jordan and Turkey for talks on the current situation in Syria.

WION is tracking all updates on the ongoing crisis in West Asia. At the time of writing the top 10 world news, United States (US) Secretary of State Antony Blinken would be on Thursday (Dec 12) visiting Jordan and Turkey for talks on the current situation in Syria. Taliban minister Khalil Haqqani was killed in an explosion in Kabul on Wednesday. Khalil was a senior member of the Haqqani family, one of the most influential factions within the Taliban. In other news from around the world, Indian opposition party Congress' President Mallikarjun Kharge claimed that the Rajya Sabha (the upper house of Parliament) was being run by "politics and not rules," as he accused Rajya Sabha Chairperson Jagdeep Dhankar of targeting opposition and praising the government. Click on the headlines to read more: West Asia crisis LIVE: Blinken to visit Jordan, Turkey for talks on Syria US Secretary of State Antony Blinken would on Thursday head to Jordan and then Turkey for talks on the ongoing situation in Syria. According to the State Department, Blinken during his visit would reiterate Washington's support for an inclusive, Syrian-led transition to an accountable and representative government. Taliban minister Khalil Haqqani killed in Kabul bombing: Who was he? Khalil Haqqani, the Taliban's acting minister for refugees and repatriation, has been killed in a bombing in Kabul on Wednesday (Dec 11), reports suggest. Khalil, a key member of the powerful Haqqani network, died following an explosion that targeted a mosque in the Afghan capital. 'He targets opposition, praises government': Kharge accuses Dhankhar of bias in no-confidence motion Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday (Dec 11) accused Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar of "targeting the opposition, praising the government," and claimed that the Rajya Sabha (upper house of the Indian Parliament) was "being run by politics, not rules." Kharge, leading the INDIA bloc’s push for a no-confidence motion against Dhankhar, said, "The chairman's conduct has been contrary to the dignity of his post. Iran's new Hijab law imposes death penalty, fines, and imprisonment for non-compliance Iran has introduced a controversial law that strengthens compulsory hijab regulations, imposing severe penalties for non-compliance including the death penalty. The law, Protection of the Family through the Promotion of the Culture of Chastity and Hijab law, was approved on December 1, 2024, and will be enforced starting Friday (Dec 13). 'Growing tendency to misuse Section 498A': Indian Supreme Court amid Bengaluru techie's suicide As more and more developments are beginning to emerge in the suicide case of a techie in the Indian city of Bengaluru, the Supreme Court expressed concerns over the growing tendency to misuse Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). This section penalises cruelty by husbands and their relatives against married women. Netanyahu corruption trial: Israeli PM says he didn't discuss give and take with ex-owner of news site The trial involves three separate cases in which prosecutors said that Netanyahu exchanged regulatory favours with media titans for favourable press coverage and advanced the personal interests of a billionaire Hollywood producer in exchange for lavish gifts. IMD says 27 districts across Tamil Nadu on alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall The evolving weather system off the Bay of Bengal is expected to move towards Sri Lanka and Tamil Nadu coasts during the next 24 hours, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) . As the weather system moves north, northwestwards in the coming days, it is expected to bring heavy (7-11 cms) to very heavy rain (12-20 cms) in 28 districts of Tamil Nadu, and the adjoining Union Territory of Puducherry. US court rejects The Onion’s ‘flawed’ auction bid for Infowars A US bankruptcy judge Tuesday (Dec 10) rejected an auction bid by satirical news outlet The Onion to acquire Infowars, conspiracy theorist Alex Jones’ website. The Onion had won the bid to purchase Infowars on November 14 after the platform was put up for sale owing to Jones’ $1.5 billion case in connection with the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary shooting. BGT 2024-25: 'Good carry, pace and bounce,' awaits India at Gabba says pitch curator The third Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test is just a couple of days away and another pacy and bouncy pitch awaits India at the iconic Gabba stadium in Brisbane. Gabba pitch curator David Sandurski, however, said that the wicket hopefully will offer something for everyone. Jay Z's alleged illegitimate son's claims resurface amid rape allegations The skeletons are tumbling out for Jay Z it seems. Amid rape allegations that the rapper is facing, his alleged illegitimate son is making headlines. Jay Z has denied his role in the alleged rap of a teen back in 2000 during an MTV Awards afterparty. However, 31-year-old Rymir Sattherthwaite's claims may also land the music producer in trouble. Rymir has been fighting to prove his biological ties to the Roc Nation founder, whose real name is Shawn Carter.

Top 10 world news: West Asia crisis updates; Taliban minister Khalil Haqqani killed, and more

As fresh violence erupted in Manipur, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Sunday alleged that the ruling party BJP deliberately wants the border state to burn as "it serves their hateful divisive politics".

As fresh violence erupted in Manipur, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Sunday alleged that the ruling party BJP deliberately wants the border state to burn as "it serves their hateful divisive politics". Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah has cancelled his poll rallies in Maharashtra in view of the escalating violence in Manipur. Kharge said the people of state will never forgive or forget that Prime Minister Narendra Modi left them to fend for themselves and never set foot in their state to heal their miseries. "@narendramodi ji, Under your double engine governments, 'neither Manipur is one, nor is Manipur Safe'," the Congress president said in a post on X. "Since May 2023, it is undergoing unimaginable pain, division and simmering violence, which has destroyed the future of its people." "We are saying it with utmost responsibility that it looks that the BJP deliberately wants Manipur to burn, for it serves its hateful divisive politics," he said. Kharge said at least 17 people have lost their lives since November 7, adding new districts are being added to the list of strife-torn regions, and the fire is spilling over to bordering northeastern states. "You have failed Manipur a beautiful border state. Even if you visit Manipur in future, people of the state will never forgive or forget that you left them to fend for themselves, and never set foot in their state to heal their miseries and find a solution," the Congress chief said. Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, also termed the recent string of violent clashes and continuing bloodshed in Manipur "deeply disturbing". He urged Prime Minister Modi to visit the state and work towards restoring peace in the region. In a post on X, Gandhi said the recent string of violent clashes and continuing bloodshed in Manipur is deeply disturbing. "After more than a year of division and suffering, it was the hope of every Indian that the Central and state governments would make every effort at reconciliation and find a solution," the former Congress chief said. "I urge the PM once again to visit Manipur and work towards restoring peace and healing in the region," he said. AICC general secretary, organisation, K C Venugopal, said the "ongoing surge of violence in Manipur shows the extent to which matters have gotten out of control". Also read: Delhi Minister Kailash Gahlot quits post and party; slams AAP leadership "The killings have once again become an everyday occurrence, and the mobs rule the streets," he alleged in a post on X. "When even ruling party MLAs are not safe in Manipur, how can the ordinary citizen have any hope for peace? The crisis has spiralled out of control simply because of the PM and Home Minister's active choice to fuel the politics of hatred," he said in his post. "The HM is busy campaigning, while the PM is off to yet another foreign visit while Manipur burns again. It is our urgent plea to the Centre to restore peace in Manipur at the earliest," the Congress leader said. A day after the bodies of three out of six missing persons were fished out of a river in Manipur, the protesters on Saturday attacked the residences of three state ministers and six MLAs, prompting the government to clamp prohibitory orders in five districts for an indefinite period besides suspending internet services in parts of the state. In Imphal, angry protesters ransacked the houses of three legislators, including that of Chief Minister N Biren Singh's son-in-law, and set their properties on fire even as the security forces fired tear gas shells to disperse the agitators. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

‘Manipur left to fend for itself,’ Congress blasts PM Modi over escalating violence

A war of words has broken out between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in India and the opposition Congress party. The reason- a remark made by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

A war of words has broken out between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in India and the opposition Congress party. The reason- a remark made by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. On Sunday, Kharge felt unwell while addressing a public meeting in Jammu and Kashmir's (J-K) Jasrota. The Union Territory (UT) is currently witnessing elections with the third and final phase of voting on Tuesday. The results of the elections will be declared on October 8. What did Kharge say? During the public meeting in Jasrota on Sunday, Kharge vowed to fight for the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, asserting he would remain active in politics until Prime Minister Modi was ousted from power. Kharge’s remarks came amid criticism of the BJP-led government at the Centre for its handling of the Valley, particularly regarding the delay of elections. “We will fight to restore statehood. We are not going to leave it. I am 83 years old, I am not going to die so early. I will stay alive until PM Modi is removed from power. I will listen to you. I will fight for you,” the Congress president said after he was provided medical assistance. Congress President Sri @kharge felt slightly unwell while addressing a public meeting in Jasrota, Jammu & Kashmir. He has been checked upon by his medical team and apart from slightly low blood pressure, he is doing well. Extremely grateful for everyone's concern. His… — Priyank Kharge / ಪ್ರಿಯಾಂಕ್ ಖರ್ಗೆ (@PriyankKharge) September 29, 2024 × Kharge further alleged that the BJP was running J-K through a remote control. “These people never wanted to conduct elections. They only started preparing for elections after the Supreme Court’s order,” he said. Condemning Modi's governance, Kharge said, "Modiji is shedding crocodile tears for the future of the youth in Jammu and Kashmir.” He also accused the BJP of failing to restore statehood despite having the authority to do so and criticised the ruling party for allowing outsiders to dominate critical sectors such as mining and liquor contracts. Also read: BJP's Amit Shah slams Congress for 'Pakistan Zindabad' slogans at rallies; vows to ‘straighten’ Waqf Board law Amit Shah reacts to Kharge's remark on Modi In a post on X, Union Home Minister Amit Shah reacted to Kharge's remarks on Modi. "Yesterday, the Congress President Shri Mallikarjun Kharge Ji has outperformed himself, his leaders and his party in being absolutely distasteful and disgraceful in his speech," Union Home Minister Shah said. Yesterday, the Congress President Shri Mallikarjun Kharge Ji has outperformed himself, his leaders and his party in being absolutely distasteful and disgraceful in his speech. In a bitter display of spite, he unnecessarily dragged PM Modi into his personal health matters by… — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) September 30, 2024 × "In a bitter display of spite, he unnecessarily dragged PM Modi into his personal health matters by saying that he would die only after removing PM Modi from power. It just shows how much hate and fear these Congress people have of PM Modi, that they are thinking of him constantly," Shah added. He also pointed out that as for the health of Kharge, "Modi Ji prays, I pray and we all pray that he lives a long, healthy life. May he continue to live for many years and may he live to see the creation of a Viksit Bharat by 2047." Echoing Shah's remarks, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said, "The leadership of Congress never loses any opportunity to display their hate towards PM Modi. This speech of Mallikarjun Kharge is one such instance. We join in praying for the long life of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge. We wish he lives to see Viksit Bharat 2047." Congress hits back at Shah: Don't hate Modi but... Senior Congress leader Pawan Khera reacted to Amit Shah's post on X. Speaking to the news agency ANI, Khera said, "When will BJP understand that Congress does not hate PM Modi but loves the country? That's why we want the nation to be free from PM Modi and his ideology. Around 67% of the country also wants the same who did not vote in favour of him..." #WATCH | Delhi | Over party President Mallikarjun Kharge's remark on PM Modi in a rally and Union Home Miniter's reaction on it, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh says, "...Kharge ji will return to election campaigning after he fell slightly ill...The Home Minister should focus on… pic.twitter.com/v8HW8j4Bp1 — ANI (@ANI) September 30, 2024 × Meanwhile, senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said that Shah should focus on his work and also on the state of Manipur. "It is in Rahul Gandhi's blood to sacrifice his life for the country. Amit Shah should tell us why the farmers in India are in debt. Why is the Swaminathan Report not being implemented?...," Madhya Pradesh Congress President Jitu Patwari told the news agency. (With inputs from agencies)

War of words between BJP and Congress over Kharge's 'will stay alive until Indian PM Modi is ousted' remark

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge fell ill while addressing a public rally on Sunday in the Jasrota belt of Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district.

After receiving medical attention, Kharge said he was not going to die before Prime Minister Narendra Modi was removed from power.

Congress leaders said Kharge is now stable after a check-up by doctors.

<h2>PM Modi speaks to Kharge</h2>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Kharge and enquired about his health after the Congress President fell ill &nbsp;during an election rally in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday.&nbsp;

Kharge fell ill while he was paying tribute to a head constable who was killed in an ongoing operation with terrorists in Kathua. Two other police personnel have been injured in the incident and one terrorist has been killed.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/your-three-generations-indias-home-minister-dares-rivals-to-restore-article-370-in-jammu-kashmir-762289">Also read:&nbsp;‘Your three generations...,’ India’s home minister dares rivals to restore Article 370 in Jammu-Kashmir</a>

"He was addressing a public rally in Jasrota when he felt uneasy and dizzy. His colleagues helped him onto a chair," Congress General Secretary Gulam Ahmed Mir told PTI.

He added that the Congress president is stable.

After being administered medical assistance at the rally venue, Kharge said, "I am 83 years old. I am not going to die so early. I will stay alive till PM Modi is removed from power..." "I wanted to talk. But due to dizziness, I have sat down. Please pardon me," he said.

Watch |&nbsp;India: Encounter Breaks Out Between Terrorists and Security Forces in J&amp;K’s Kulgam

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Later, highlighting the role of Congress prime ministers, Kharge added, "Who has freed Bangladesh? Indira Gandhi did it. 'Jai Jawan Jain Kisan' slogan was given to us. Pakistan was defeated by us. Lal Bahadur Shastri defeated it. This is Congress." Kharge had flown to Jasrota to address a rally to garner support for his party candidates in the assembly polls.

He is also scheduled to address another public rally in Ramnagar in Udhampur district.

Jammu and Kashmir Congress vice president Ravindra Sharma said Kharge felt dizzy and was taken to a room, where doctors were called for a check-up. They will advise whether he can attend the second rally or not, he said.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge fell ill while addressing a public rally on Sunday in the Jasrota belt of Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district. After receiving medical attention, Kharge said he was not going to die before Prime Minister Narendra Modi was removed from power.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge fell ill while addressing a public rally on Sunday in the Jasrota belt of Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district. After receiving medical attention, Kharge said he was not going to die before Prime Minister Narendra Modi was removed from power. Congress leaders said Kharge is now stable after a check-up by doctors. PM Modi speaks to Kharge Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Kharge and enquired about his health after the Congress President fell ill during an election rally in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday. Kharge fell ill while he was paying tribute to a head constable who was killed in an ongoing operation with terrorists in Kathua. Two other police personnel have been injured in the incident and one terrorist has been killed. Also read: ‘Your three generations...,’ India’s home minister dares rivals to restore Article 370 in Jammu-Kashmir "He was addressing a public rally in Jasrota when he felt uneasy and dizzy. His colleagues helped him onto a chair," Congress General Secretary Gulam Ahmed Mir told PTI. He added that the Congress president is stable. After being administered medical assistance at the rally venue, Kharge said, "I am 83 years old. I am not going to die so early. I will stay alive till PM Modi is removed from power..." "I wanted to talk. But due to dizziness, I have sat down. Please pardon me," he said. Watch | India: Encounter Breaks Out Between Terrorists and Security Forces in J&K’s Kulgam × Later, highlighting the role of Congress prime ministers, Kharge added, "Who has freed Bangladesh? Indira Gandhi did it. 'Jai Jawan Jain Kisan' slogan was given to us. Pakistan was defeated by us. Lal Bahadur Shastri defeated it. This is Congress." Kharge had flown to Jasrota to address a rally to garner support for his party candidates in the assembly polls. He is also scheduled to address another public rally in Ramnagar in Udhampur district. Jammu and Kashmir Congress vice president Ravindra Sharma said Kharge felt dizzy and was taken to a room, where doctors were called for a check-up. They will advise whether he can attend the second rally or not, he said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

PM Modi speaks to Congress President Kharge after he falls ill during J&K rally

The president of India's Congress party, Mallikarjun Kharge has raised the matter of highly "objectionable” and inappropriate comments made by members of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) against Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the lower house of Indian Parliament (Lok Sabha), Rahul Gandhi, over his controversial remarks made during his recent US trip, in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (September 17).

The president of India's Congress party, Mallikarjun Kharge has raised the matter of highly "objectionable” and inappropriate comments made by members of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) against Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the lower house of Indian Parliament (Lok Sabha), Rahul Gandhi, over his controversial remarks made during his recent US trip, in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (September 17). Kharge urged the prime minister to take action against BJP leaders who have used offensive language targeting Rahul Gandhi. He added that strict legal measures should be enforced to curb such behaviour. Kharge wrote to the Prime Minister in Hindi, stating, "I want to draw your attention to an issue that is directly related to democracy and the Constitution. You must be aware that a series of extremely objectionable, violent, and rude statements are being made against the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi.” Expressing shock over the harsh language used by BJP leaders and their allies, Kharge said, “The world is shocked that the Minister of State for Railways in the central government, a minister from BJP-ruled Uttar Pradesh, is calling the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha ‘number one terrorist’.” Kharge was referring to comments made by junior railways minister Ravneet Singh Bittu, and UP minister Raghuraj Singh. Kharge further added, “An MLA from a party that has ties with your government in Maharashtra is announcing a reward of ₹11 lakh to the person who ‘cuts off the tongue of the Leader of the Opposition and brings it to him’. A BJP leader and former MLA in Delhi is threatening to make his ‘fate like his grandmother’." Kharge referred to Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Gaikwad’s announcement of a reward for anyone who cuts off Gandhi’s tongue in response to his views on reservations, and BJP leader Tarvinder Singh Marwah’s remarks. Also read: Shiv Sena MLA offers Rs 11 lakh to ‘cut off’ Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s tongue after US visit comments In his letter, Kharge said that India is globally known for its principles of non-violence, harmony, and compassion. "Our heroes established these as standards in politics. Gandhi ji had made these standards an important part of politics during the British rule itself. After independence, there has been a long history of respectful disagreements between the ruling party and the opposition in the parliamentary arena. This has worked to enhance the prestige of Indian democracy," he wrote. He added that Congress leaders and workers are deeply troubled by the current situation. He said, "Due to such hate-mongering forces, Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi, Indira Gandhi, and Rajiv Gandhi had to sacrifice their lives. This political behaviour of the ruling party is an example of rudeness in democratic history.” In his letter, Kharge further requested the PM that strict disciplinary action be taken on BJP leaders involved and urged them to refrain from such behaviour. "Strict legal action should be taken for such statements so that Indian politics can be prevented from becoming degenerate. Nothing untoward happens. I trust that you will give the required instructions to these leaders to immediately stop making violent statements," Kharge wrote. (With inputs from agencies)

Kharge writes to PM Modi, urges him to ‘discipline’ NDA leaders over objectionable remarks on Rahul Gandhi

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