Pawan Khera Defends Kharge's 'Jailed' Remark, BJP Rebukes Statement

Congress leader Pawan Khera staunchly defended Mallikarjun Kharge's statement on impending jail terms for BJP leaders. Kharge urged unity among party supporters and dismissed BJP's dominance. Meanwhile, BJP's Prem Shukla criticized Kharge, comparing his statement to Indira Gandhi's emergency period. Polling in Jammu and Kashmir is set for September and October.

Congress leader Pawan Khera on Thursday defended party chief Mallikarjun Kharge's controversial 'jailed' statement. Khera emphasized that BJP leaders would ultimately face legal consequences for their actions. He asserted, 'If not today, then tomorrow, these people will indeed have to go behind bars.'

During a public meeting in Jammu and Kashmir, Kharge stressed the importance of the alliance and urged supporters to remain unafraid of the BJP. He appealed for unity among party members, stating, 'They (BJP) used to say 400 paar, 400 paar, where are your 400 seats? They stopped at 240 this time. We need to win and fight together.'

In response, BJP leaders in Jammu criticized Kharge's remarks. BJP leader Prem Shukla accused Kharge of harboring emergency-era intentions similar to Indira Gandhi's actions in 1975. He stated, 'Mallikarjun Kharge, under Rahul Gandhi's directions, is dreaming about the emergency to be reimposed.'

Polling in Jammu and Kashmir is scheduled in three phases on September 18, September 25, and October 1. The vote count will take place on October 8.

(With inputs from agencies.)