New Delhi, Oct. 28: A fresh political controversy has emerged within the Congress after senior party leader and former Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan publicly expressed disapproval of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge’s controversial remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stressing that political leaders must uphold dignity and restraint in public discourse.
Speaking to reporters in Godhra, Gujarat, Chavan said that leaders, irrespective of their political affiliation, should avoid using language that crosses the limits of civility. While ideological differences and political criticism are integral to democracy, he said, public statements should never descend into personal attacks.
“The language used by political leaders must reflect the dignity of public life. Even while criticising opponents, leaders should maintain decorum. This responsibility applies equally to leaders of all political parties, including the BJP,” Chavan said.
The controversy stems from remarks made by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge during a public function in Patna, Bihar, organised to commemorate the 139th birth anniversary of Bihar’s first Chief Minister, Shri Krishna Singh. While addressing alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls, Kharge made comments about Prime Minister Narendra Modi that drew sharp political reactions.
Responding to the episode, Chavan said that if Kharge’s remarks were made inadvertently, he should issue a clarification. He emphasised that seniority in politics does not give anyone the liberty to compromise on the standards of civil discourse.
“No leader, regardless of stature or experience, has the right to dilute the dignity of political communication. Public representatives must exercise restraint in their speeches and recognise the responsibility that comes with holding high office,” he said.
Chavan also voiced concern over the changing nature of political culture in the country. Recalling his tenure in Parliament, he said political opponents once engaged in intense debates inside the House while maintaining cordial personal relationships outside.
“I had fierce debates with leaders like Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Sushma Swaraj and Jaswant Singh. There were disagreements and confrontations in Parliament, but mutual respect always remained intact outside the House. Today, political rivalry increasingly appears to have turned into personal hostility, which is not a healthy trend for democracy,” Chavan observed.
His remarks are being viewed as a rare instance of internal criticism within the Congress leadership and have renewed the debate over the need for responsible political communication and maintaining decorum in public life.
