Congress leader V. Hanumantha Rao on Sunday hit back strongly at Prime Minister Narendra Modi after he referred to the party as “Muslim League Maoist Congress,” saying legal and political action would be taken over the remark.
Rao criticised the statement, calling it derogatory and unacceptable, and said such comments lower the dignity of political discourse. He asserted that the Indian National Congress would not remain silent and would respond through appropriate channels.
The controversy began after Modi, while addressing a public gathering, used the phrase to attack the Congress, alleging that the party’s policies and alliances were influenced by divisive and extremist ideologies. The remark quickly triggered sharp reactions from opposition leaders.
Reacting to the statement, Rao said the Prime Minister should focus on governance rather than making inflammatory comments. He warned that the Congress would explore legal options and take the matter forward if required.
Leaders from the Congress echoed similar sentiments, accusing the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party of resorting to provocative language for political gain. They argued that such rhetoric could deepen divisions and distract from key public issues.
On the other hand, BJP leaders defended Modi’s comments, saying they were part of a broader critique of the Congress party’s political stance. They maintained that the Prime Minister was highlighting ideological differences and raising concerns about the opposition’s approach.
The exchange has intensified the ongoing political war of words between the two major parties, with both sides sharpening their attacks ahead of upcoming elections. Observers note that such confrontations are likely to continue as the political climate becomes more charged.
No formal complaint had been filed at the time of reporting, but the issue is expected to remain in focus as reactions continue to pour in from across the political spectrum.
