Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not hold back as he criticized the ‘royal family’ of the Congress party over derogatory remarks made against President Droupadi Murmu. The controversy erupted after Congress leader Sonia Gandhi suggested that the President was ‘getting tired by the end’ of her speech during the first day of the Budget Session in 2025.
In a fiery speech at a political rally in Delhi, PM Modi came to the defense of President Murmu, highlighting her humble background and inspirational journey. He emphasized that the President, hailing from a tribal family with Odia as her mother tongue, delivered a powerful speech in Parliament. Modi condemned the Congress members for demeaning her, stating, “But the royal family of Congress has started insulting her.”
Sonia Gandhi’s comments outside Parliament, reported by ANI, sparked further controversy. She remarked that the President seemed exhausted by the end of her speech, calling her a ‘poor thing.’ Independent MP and Congress supporter Pappu Yadav added fuel to the fire by likening the President to a mere stamp, implying a lack of agency in her role.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) faced criticism from Pappu Yadav, who accused them of deception and diversion tactics. He listed various issues, including demonetization, black money, job creation promises, and social welfare schemes, accusing the BJP of neglecting the concerns of ordinary citizens. Rashtrapati Bhavan swiftly responded to Sonia Gandhi’s comments, denouncing them as ‘unacceptable’ and ‘entirely avoidable.’
Rashtrapati Bhavan Responds
In a statement, the Rashtrapati Bhavan refuted Sonia Gandhi’s claims, asserting that President Murmu was not fatigued during her speech. The official statement emphasized the President’s commitment to advocating for marginalized communities, women, and farmers, highlighting the importance of her address. The Rashtrapati Bhavan suggested that the Congress leaders might have misinterpreted the nuances of Indian languages like Hindi, leading to a misunderstanding.
Expert Insights and Reactions
Political analysts and experts weighed in on the escalating tensions between the ruling party and the opposition. Many viewed the exchange as a reflection of the deep-rooted political divisions in the country. Dr. Ritu Singh, a renowned political commentator, remarked, “This incident underscores the intense polarization and verbal sparring that often characterize political discourse in India. Both sides must exercise restraint and focus on constructive dialogue for the benefit of the nation.”
As the controversy continued to unfold, social media was abuzz with reactions from citizens across the country. The incident reignited debates on respect, dignity, and language sensitivity in political debates. Many citizens expressed dismay over the personal attacks and urged politicians to maintain decorum and civility in their interactions.
In conclusion, the clash between political leaders over President Murmu’s speech highlighted the need for mutual respect and professionalism in public discourse. The incident served as a reminder of the power of language and the impact of words in shaping public perception. As the nation grappled with the aftermath of this controversy, calls for unity and empathy resonated among citizens, emphasizing the importance of upholding democratic values in all interactions.
