'Insult to India itself': Rajnath Singh attacks Kharge over 'baap' remark against PM Modi

NEW DELHI: Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Monday criticised Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge over his “baap” remark about Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying the comments were an insult to India and an attack on the dignity of politics.

"I believe this is not merely an insult to an individual or a family, but to India itself. This is also an assault on the dignity of politics. In a democracy, you may register your opposition, question policies, and criticize the government—but please, do not cross the boundaries of personal decorum," he said.

He also said that PM Modi could not be swayed by such remarks and that his resolve to serve the people would not be weakened. He said the public kept track of political conduct and would give a fitting response when the time came.

"The Congress should remember that in a democracy, the public keeps track of everything and, when the time comes, provides a fitting response. I wish to make it clear to the Congress that Prime Minister Modi cannot be swayed by such remarks, nor can his resolve to serve the people be weakened in any way," he said.

He further accused Congress of justifying the remarks saying, "But the Congress did not stop there; they are now further hurting people's sentiments by attempting to justify Kharge ji’s words. Instead of acknowledging their mistake and expressing regret, the Congress is busy defending and validating this statement..."

The BJP’s Patna Metropolitan unit held a protest march against Kharge’s remarks. The controversy erupted during an event in Patna marking the 139th birth anniversary of Bihar’s first chief minister, Krishna Sinha. When an attendee interrupted Kharge’s address by saying that PM Modi would "not go anywhere", the Congress president reportedly retorted, “Modi ka baap bhi jayega” (Even Modi’s father will have to go). The remark triggered a political row, with the BJP accusing Kharge of using offensive language against the prime minister’s family.