A political controversy erupted on the final day of campaigning in Tamil Nadu after Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a “terrorist,” triggering sharp reactions from the BJP and its allies.
Addressing a gathering, Kharge questioned the alliance between the AIADMK and the BJP, saying, “How can they join with Modi? He is a terrorist. He won’t believe in equality. His party doesn’t believe in equality and justice. By joining them, they are weakening democracy.” The remark quickly drew widespread criticism, with political opponents accusing the Congress of lowering the level of discourse.
Responding to the statement, Union Minister and BJP leader Piyush Goyal expressed confidence in the National Democratic Alliance’s prospects in the state. He claimed that the alliance was heading toward a “clean sweep,” citing strong public response to rallies addressed by Prime Minister Modi, AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami, and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Goyal also pointed to the enthusiastic reception received by Andhra Pradesh leader N. Chandrababu Naidu during campaign events.
Amid mounting backlash, Kharge later clarified his remarks, stating they were taken out of context. He said his comments were aimed at criticizing the BJP-led government’s alleged misuse of central agencies such as the CBI, ED, and Income Tax Department. “I never said that he is a terrorist. I meant that the government is terrorising political parties and candidates by using these institutions,” Kharge explained, emphasizing that his criticism was directed at governance practices rather than an individual.
On the broader election campaign, Kharge struck an optimistic note about the Congress-DMK alliance’s chances. He said feedback from party workers and voters indicated strong support, expressing confidence that the alliance would form the next government in Tamil Nadu.
Addressing speculation about the absence of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin sharing the same stage during the campaign, Kharge dismissed any notion of discord. He clarified that leaders were campaigning in different regions as part of a coordinated strategy and reiterated that the alliance remained united.
However, BJP leaders continued to attack Kharge over his initial statement. BJP MP Sambit Patra termed the remark “deliberate and condemnable,” alleging it reflected the Congress party’s mindset. He accused the opposition of repeatedly using derogatory language against the Prime Minister and claimed that voters would respond strongly in the elections.
The controversy has added a sharp edge to the closing phase of Tamil Nadu’s election campaign, highlighting the increasingly combative tone of political discourse as parties make their final push for votes.
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