‘Unacceptable’: BJP Mounts Big Attack As Mallikarjun Kharge’s Rajya Sabha Remark Sparks Row

Last Updated:March 11, 2025, 15:15 is

Despite his clarification, BJP leaders maintained that his language was inappropriate and insisted on a full apology.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge lost his cool during a speech in Rajya Sabha. (Image: X)

A heated confrontation erupted in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday after BJP leaders strongly objected to remarks made by Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge during his speech. BJP leaders accused Kharge of using inappropriate language against the Speaker and demanded an apology.

The entire row unfolded during discussions on the National Education Policy (NEP) when the Congress president expressed concern over the education minister’s absence in the morning session and requested another opportunity to speak. However, the Chair denied the request.

As Kharge spoke, the Speaker attempted to intervene, prompting Kharge to show frustration. In response, BJP chief JP Nadda criticised his remarks, stating, “It is very unfortunate that the Leader of the Opposition is using this kind of language for the Chair.”

The situation escalated when Kharge, visibly upset over being stopped, said, “This is dictatorship,” insisting that he be allowed to continue since he had prepared his speech. His statement triggered sharp criticism from BJP lawmakers, who called it disrespectful.

Nadda urged the Speaker to condemn Kharge’s remarks and insisted that the Leader of the Opposition issue a formal apology. Kharge later attempted to clarify his stance, saying, “I apologize for my comments… My remarks were directed at the government’s policies, not the Speaker. I apologize to you, but not to the government.”

Despite his clarification, BJP leaders maintained that his language was inappropriate and insisted on a full apology. “The language he used and the aspersions he cast on the Chair are unacceptable. He should apologize,” Nadda reiterated.