Controversy erupts after Mallikarjun Kharge’s remark, with BJP leaders alleging communal provocation and seeking legal action
April 9, 2026: Senior leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party, including Nitin Nabin, have launched a sharp attack on Mallikarjun Kharge over his controversial “poisonous snake” remark targeting the BJP and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. Nabin accused Kharge of attempting to incite communal tensions and termed the comments irresponsible. He also suggested that the remarks reflected the influence of leaders like Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi.
The controversy began after Kharge’s rally in Assam, where he allegedly compared the BJP and RSS to a “poisonous snake.” The statement triggered strong reactions, with BJP leaders filing police complaints and accusing the Congress of appeasement politics. Protests were also held in Mandya, where party workers demanded Kharge’s arrest and described the remarks as hate speech.
Several BJP leaders, including MP Manoj Tiwari, condemned the statement, calling it objectionable and politically motivated. The Congress has not issued a detailed response so far, while police in Assam and Karnataka are examining the complaints. The row has intensified political tensions, adding to the charged atmosphere ahead of elections.