Bhupesh Baghel Criticizes PM Modi Over ‘Parmatma’ Remark, Asserts He Cannot Match Nehru
Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel sparked a controversy by making a bold statement about Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The former Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh declared that Modi could never attain the stature of Jawaharlal Nehru, even if he were reborn ten times. Baghel stated, “He is trying to make a place by defaming Nehru, but he is not even the dust of Nehru’s feet.”
Baghel’s comments came in response to recent remarks made by Prime Minister Modi. Baghel accused Modi of attempting to boost his own reputation by criticizing Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister and a key figure in the country’s independence movement. “Nowadays, the PM says anything he wants. He started by calling our manifesto an agenda of the Muslim League, Mangalsutra, mutton, fish, and buffalo… Now he is saying that the Parmatma has sent him, which means he is not a normal human. It shows that he is mentally unstable,” Baghel commented.
The controversy escalated when Baghel contrasted the legacies of Nehru and Modi. He highlighted the achievements of Nehru’s descendants, particularly Rahul Gandhi, in comparison to Modi’s actions. Baghel said, “Rahul Gandhi is the grandson of a leader who divided Pakistan into two, while Modi ji went all the way to Pakistan to eat Biryani. PM Modi is trying to make a place by defaming Nehru but he is not even the dust of Nehru’s feet. He can’t become Nehru even if he takes birth 10 times.”
Baghel also took the opportunity to criticize the Election Commission of India. He noted that during the era of ballot papers, the election panel would release all voting data within 24 hours. However, in the current digital age, the commission has been delaying the release of voting data for 8-10 days. When the data is eventually released, it shows an increase in polling percentage by 6-8 percent. Baghel questioned the integrity of these delays, asking, “Whom do you want to shower favours on?”
These comments by Baghel have stirred significant debate and controversy within Indian political circles. As the country approaches the Lok Sabha Election 2024, the political landscape is becoming increasingly charged, with leaders from various parties engaging in sharp exchanges and criticisms.
Analysis of Baghel’s Remarks and Their Impact
Bhupesh Baghel’s remarks are indicative of the intense political rivalry between the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). By invoking Jawaharlal Nehru, Baghel aimed to emphasize the enduring legacy of the Nehru-Gandhi family, which has been a central pillar of the Congress party for decades. His statement that Modi “can’t become Nehru even if he takes birth 10 times” is a direct challenge to Modi’s efforts to position himself as a leader of comparable historical significance.
Baghel’s comments also reflect a broader strategy employed by the Congress to critique Modi’s leadership style and policies. By accusing Modi of defaming Nehru, Baghel is attempting to highlight what he sees as a lack of respect for India’s historical leaders and a divisive approach to politics. This critique is intended to resonate with voters who hold Nehru and the legacy of the Indian independence movement in high regard.
Reaction from Political and Public Spheres
The reaction to Baghel’s comments has been mixed. Supporters of the Congress party have praised Baghel for his boldness and for defending Nehru’s legacy. They view his remarks as a necessary counter to what they see as Modi’s attempts to rewrite Indian history and undermine the contributions of past leaders.
On the other hand, supporters of the BJP and Prime Minister Modi have condemned Baghel’s remarks as disrespectful and indicative of the Congress party’s desperation. They argue that Modi’s leadership has brought about significant positive changes in India, and that comparisons to Nehru are unnecessary and politically motivated.
Broader Political Context
The upcoming Lok Sabha Election 2024 adds a layer of urgency to these exchanges. Both the Congress and the BJP are ramping up their rhetoric in an effort to galvanize their respective bases. For the Congress, attacking Modi’s character and leadership is a strategy to energize their supporters and draw attention to what they perceive as the shortcomings of the current government.
For the BJP, defending Modi’s reputation and countering these attacks is crucial to maintaining their strong position. They aim to highlight Modi’s achievements and portray the Congress as out of touch with contemporary India.
Conclusion
Bhupesh Baghel’s criticism of Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscores the high-stakes nature of Indian politics as the nation approaches the 2024 general elections. By invoking the legacy of Jawaharlal Nehru, Baghel seeks to draw a sharp contrast between the leadership styles and achievements of the Congress and the BJP. This controversy is likely to fuel further debate and intensify the political battle in the lead-up to the elections. As both parties continue to vie for the support of the electorate, the discourse will undoubtedly become more heated, reflecting the deep political divides in the country.