Jammu, April 7 :
BJP spokesperson and Convenor for International Affairs, Gaurav Gupta, launched a scathing attack on Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Tuesday, following controversial remarks allegedly targeting the people of Gujarat.
Labeling the statements as “shameless, demeaning, and utterly despicable,” Gupta demanded an immediate apology, accusing the Congress leadership of abandoning political decorum and insulting the heritage of an entire state.
‘Were Gandhi and Patel Illiterate?’
In a hard-hitting statement issued from Jammu, Gupta invoked the names of India’s most iconic figures to highlight the gravity of the insult. He questioned whether the Congress President considered the legendary architects of modern India to be uneducated.
“Was Mahatma Gandhi illiterate? Was Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel illiterate? Was Morarji Desai illiterate?” Gupta asked.
He further noted that Gujarat is the cradle of India’s intellectual and scientific progress, being the birthplace of figures like eminent scientist Vikram Sarabhai.
Attack on Congress Leadership
Gupta highlighted a “complete erosion of values” within the Congress party, contrasting Kharge’s current leadership with the legacy of past presidents.
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The Legacy: Gupta pointed out that the post was once held by stalwarts like Jawaharlal Nehru, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, and Maulana Abul Kalam Azad.
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The Question: “What is the person occupying that position saying today?” Gupta remarked, calling the mindset “dangerous and divisive.”
He also challenged Sonia Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi to break their silence and clarify whether they endorse the disparaging remarks made by their party president.
Fact-Checking the ‘Illiterate’ Claim
Countering the rhetoric with data, the BJP spokesperson highlighted Gujarat’s actual progress in education:
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Literacy Rate: Currently stands at approximately 82%.
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Growth Trend: Significant improvement under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
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National Comparison: Gupta accused Congress of playing “state vs. state” politics by praising literacy in Kerala while deriding Gujarat.
The BJP has characterized this latest controversy as a reflection of the Congress party’s “disconnect” from the Indian people. Gupta concluded by stating that such remarks are not just an affront to Gujaratis but an insult to the national fabric of India.
“This reflects arrogance and a mindset aimed at dividing the country,” Gupta added, warning that the people of India would not tolerate such irresponsible statements.
