The recent exchange of words between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has intensified the political landscape, with each side sharply criticizing the other’s governance and promises. Prime Minister Modi recently called out the Congress for alleged failure to meet electoral promises, particularly in Congress-led states like Karnataka, Himachal Pradesh, and Telangana. Modi argued that these states are facing worsening fiscal situations, with unfulfilled promises impacting key groups such as farmers, youth, and women. He specifically cited issues like delayed government salaries in Himachal Pradesh, farmers waiting for promised waivers in Telangana, and alleged intra-party discord in Karnataka.
Kharge and other Congress leaders fired back, with Kharge condemning the BJP for “lies, deceit, fraud, loot, and publicity” and accusing the ruling party of broken promises, such as creating two crore jobs annually and doubling farmers’ incomes. Kharge also criticized the government for economic policies, claiming that India’s unemployment rate is at a 45-year high and pointing to significant government borrowing over the past decade. He went on to say that the BJP’s “Acche Din” slogan has fallen flat, with issues like declining MSMEs due to demonetization and GST implementation, and alleged weakening of the rupee.
Further adding to the discourse, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah defended his administration, claiming the Congress government has implemented key promises with a budget exceeding ₹52,000 crore. He accused the previous BJP government in Karnataka of corruption and misuse of resources. Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu highlighted Congress’s achievements in the state, mentioning a 20 percent economic boost and a vision for a prosperous, self-reliant Himachal Pradesh. Chhattisgarh’s former CM Bhupesh Baghel also joined the conversation, asserting that Congress fulfilled its commitments and calling for Modi to avoid what he described as “petty politics.”
This exchange underscores the broader tension between both parties as they gear up for upcoming elections, with each side accusing the other of failing the people, highlighting unkept promises, and positioning themselves as the more reliable choice for governance.
