Political Storm: BJP and Congress Clash Over Alleged Disrespect Toward Kharge

Amidst allegations of disrespect towards Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge at Priyanka Gandhi's nomination filing, BJP's Basavaraj Bommai and Congress leader KC Venugopal exchanged barbs. Bommai demanded respect for Kharge, while Venugopal denied the claim, criticizing the BJP for allegedly spreading lies. The controversy unfolds as Wayanad by-polls approach.

In a fresh political confrontation, BJP leader and former Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai on Friday addressed allegations regarding the purported mistreatment of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge during Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's nomination filing for the Wayanad by-polls. Bommai insisted such scenarios have unfolded publicly on numerous occasions. He underscored Kharge's standing as a significant leader in Karnataka, urging the Congress to show him the same respect the BJP does. 'Kharge ji is our leader, a big leader in the state. Even though he is in Congress, we respect him,' Bommai asserted.

Contradicting the BJP's claims, Congress leader KC Venugopal on Thursday stated that Kharge was indeed present at Priyanka's nomination event. Venugopal explained the delay at the door where both Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi waited briefly before entering, questioning the BJP's motives for spreading 'lies.' He condemned the BJP's targeting of Kharge and accused them of disseminating falsehoods. Earlier, BJP National Spokesperson CR Kesavan described the alleged episode as shocking and indicative of the Congress's 'disdain and disrespect' toward a senior Dalit leader. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma further lambasted Congress, labeling their treatment of Dalits within the party as reflective of 'untouchability' practices.

Priyanka Gandhi processed her nomination at the district collector's office in Kalpetta on Wednesday, following a roadshow jointly held with Rahul Gandhi. The Wayanad seat, vacated by Rahul Gandhi after retaining Rae Bareli's Lok Sabha seat, faces a by-poll scheduled for November 13. Bommai did not hold back criticism of the current Karnataka administration, branding it 'anti-people, non-performing, and corrupt,' while expressing confidence that the NDA would claim victory in all three upcoming by-polls.

(With inputs from agencies.)