Modi’s Attack on Congress
Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized the Congress party for failing to deliver on its promises in Karnataka, sparking a heated exchange with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge.
Kharge Fires Back
Kharge accused the BJP of deception, saying “lies, deceit, fraud, loot, and publicity” define the Modi government. He also claimed the “B” in BJP stands for “betrayal” and the “J” for “jumla” (empty promises).
Congress’ Track Record
Kharge cited the Congress’s track record in fulfilling promises, contrasting it with the BJP’s unfulfilled guarantees in Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, and Telangana.
Modi’s Rebuttal
NewscornerliveModi alleged the Congress is busy with intra-party politics in Karnataka, neglecting governance. He also claimed the Congress failed to pay government workers’ salaries on time in Himachal Pradesh and failed to waive farmer loans in Telangana.
Congress Leaders Respond
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, and other Congress leaders hit back at Modi, highlighting the Congress’s achievements and the BJP’s unfulfilled promises.
Job Creation and Unemployment
Kharge raised the issue of the BJP’s promise to create two crore jobs per year, citing India’s 45-year high unemployment rate and stampedes at job vacancies.
Economic Criticisms
Kharge criticized the Modi government’s economic policies, including the impact of demonetization and GST on MSMEs, and the rupee’s all-time low value.
Foreign Policy Criticisms
Kharge accused the Modi government of mishandling relations with neighboring countries and giving a “clean chit” to China post-Galwan.
Social Justice Concerns
Kharge alleged the Modi government snatched government jobs from SC, ST, OBC, and EWS communities by increasing casual and contract hiring.
Conclusion
The war of words between Modi and Kharge highlights the intense political rivalry ahead of the elections, with both parties trading accusations and counter-accusations.