Bidar: In a pointed rebuttal, Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan took a sharp dig at Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge over his controversial 'terrorist' remark against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The exchange took place right in front of Kharge on a public stage in Bidar. Both dignitaries shared the dais during the Amrit Mahotsav of Basavalinga Pattaddevaru and the Commemoration ceremony of Channabasava Pattaddevaru. During the event, the Vice President took the opportunity to ideologically critique Kharge’s recent statements.
"Unable to Distinguish Between Black and White"
Addressing the gathering, C.P. Radhakrishnan remarked, "Sometimes I feel there is a slight difference in perspective between Kharge ji and me. It seems to me that Kharge ji is unable to distinguish between black and white."
‘Terror to the Terrorists’
Referring to Kharge’s earlier comparison of PM Modi to a terrorist, Radhakrishnan stated sharply, "He doesn't seem to know the difference between who the terrorists are and who are the ones who strike terror into the hearts of terrorists (Terror to the Terrorists)." The Vice President’s words were a clear defense of the Prime Minister’s hardline stance on eliminating terrorism.
Key Highlights of the Event:
Friends on Stage: Despite the stinging criticism, Radhakrishnan maintained a level of decorum, adding, "Apart from all this, we both are very good friends personally," drawing a line between political disagreement and personal friendship.
Religious Backdrop: This political war of words was notably witnessed at the sacred platform of the Bhalki Hiremath during the celebrations for the seers.
The Root of the Controversy
The controversy stems from a recent statement by Mallikarjun Kharge regarding PM Modi, which triggered a nationwide debate. Kharge had allegedly remarked that while the BJP praises Modi, he is "a terrorist" in his actions/ideology. The Vice President chose the soil of Bidar to deliver a firm counter-response to these allegations. This incident highlights how the political mudslinging between rivals has now evolved into a verbal duel involving those holding high constitutional offices.