Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday clarified his controversial remarks about Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating that he did not call the Prime Minister a “terrorist” but alleged that the government is “terrorising” political leaders and candidates through misuse of agencies and tax measures.
Addressing a public gathering, Kharge said his comments had been misinterpreted by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). “I did not call him a terrorist. What I said is that the Prime Minister is terrorising politicians, candidates and opposition leaders. There is tax terrorism happening in the country,” Kharge asserted.
The Congress leader accused central agencies such as the Income Tax Department and Enforcement Directorate of being used as tools to target opposition parties ahead of elections. According to him, frequent raids, notices, and financial scrutiny are being selectively directed at political rivals, creating an atmosphere of fear. Kharge argued that such actions undermine democratic principles and level playing fields during polls.
The BJP, however, strongly condemned Kharge’s remarks, calling them irresponsible and defamatory. Party leaders demanded an apology, stating that such language against the Prime Minister lowers the dignity of political discourse. They maintained that investigative agencies operate independently and act based on evidence, not political direction.
The controversy comes amid heightened political tensions as election campaigns intensify in several states. The exchange of sharp remarks between the ruling party and the विपक्ष has become a recurring feature, with both sides accusing each other of misusing power and spreading misinformation.
Kharge reiterated that his criticism was aimed at what he described as the government’s “authoritarian functioning.” He emphasised that democracy thrives on dissent and that opposition voices should not be suppressed through administrative or financial pressure.
Political analysts note that the phrase “tax terrorism” has been used by opposition leaders in the past to criticise aggressive tax enforcement, particularly when it coincides with election cycles. The term reflects concerns over alleged overreach by authorities, though the government has consistently denied such claims.
As the debate escalates, the issue is likely to remain a flashpoint in the ongoing political discourse, further intensifying the war of words between the Congress and the BJP in the run-up to crucial elections.
