Congress analysing booth-level reports on Haryana elections: Mallikarjun Kharge

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Saturday rejected Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent claim that the opposition party is controlled by “urban naxals,” and launched a fierce counter-attack, accusing the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of being responsible for violence against Scheduled Castes (SCs) and tribals.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge.

Kharge, in a blistering speech, accused the BJP of fostering a culture of terrorism and enabling acts of mob lynching and violence. “Progressive people are being labelled as Urban Naxals by the Prime Minister. This is his habit. But it is his party that is a terrorist party. They engage in lynching, assault people, urinate in the mouths of Scheduled Caste members, and rape tribals,” Kharge said.

He alleged that the BJP not only tolerates such heinous acts but also supports the perpetrators. “Wherever the BJP is in power, atrocities against Scheduled Castes and tribals increase. Then they turn around and blame others. It is his government, and he can control it if he chooses,” Kharge added.