BJP Criticizes Congress President Kharge Over Remarks on Jailing Opponents

BJP leaders in Jammu have criticized Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge's statements about jailing political opponents if Congress had gained more seats. They argue Kharge's remarks echo Indira Gandhi's actions during the 1975 Emergency. Polling in Jammu and Kashmir is set to begin on September 18.

BJP leaders in Jammu have strongly objected to Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge's recent comments that suggested if Congress had won 20 more seats, political opponents would have been jailed. BJP leader Prem Shukla, speaking to ANI, highlighted that former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi imprisoned thousands of opposition leaders without charges during the emergency, a move Kharge seems to threaten repeating.

Shukla said, "In 1975, Indira Gandhi lodged thousands of opposition leaders, without any charge, into jail. Mallikarjun Kharge, under the directions of Rahul Gandhi, is dreaming about the emergency to be reimposed." Addressing a rally in Anantnag, Kharge remarked, "If Congress had won 20 more seats, then they all would have been jailed."

Additionally, BJP leader Abhijeet Jasrotia told ANI that comments from Congress leaders currently out on bail in the National Herald case, including Rahul Gandhi, are laughable. He accused Rahul Gandhi of defaming India during his US visit.

Kharge, addressing the same rally, emphasized the need for alliance and urged supporters not to fear the BJP. He questioned the BJP's seat claims and called for unity among party members, urging them to fight together without internal blame. Polling in Jammu and Kashmir will occur in three phases, starting from September 18, with vote counting on October 8.

(With inputs from agencies.)