Bharatiya Janata Party Moves EC Against Mallikarjun Kharge Over ‘Terrorist’ Remark on PM Narendra Modi

A political controversy has intensified after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) approached the Election Commission of India (EC), seeking action against Mallikarjun Kharge over his controversial remark involving Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

⚖️ BJP Files Formal Complaint with EC

The BJP has formally urged the poll body to:

• Take immediate cognisance of Kharge’s statement
• Direct him to issue a public apology or retraction
• Initiate penal and regulatory proceedings under applicable laws
• Impose campaign restrictions, if necessary

A delegation including Union ministers Nirmala Sitharaman, Kiren Rijiju, and Arjun Ram Meghwal is expected to meet the Commission to press the matter further.

📜 Alleged Violation of Model Code of Conduct

In its memorandum, the BJP termed the remark:

• “Grossly derogatory”
• A “prima facie violation” of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC)

The party has also cited provisions under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, requesting the EC to examine potential offences and take appropriate legal action.

Additionally, the BJP has asked for:

• Removal of the statement from campaign and digital platforms
• Directions to media and social media platforms to limit its circulation

🗣️ What Did Mallikarjun Kharge Say?

The controversy stems from remarks made by Mallikarjun Kharge during a press conference in Chennai.

While criticising political alliances and the central government, Kharge initially referred to the Prime Minister using the term “terrorist.”

However, he later clarified his statement, saying:

• He meant that the Prime Minister was “terrorising political parties and the public”
• He did not intend a literal accusation
• His comments were directed at alleged misuse of government machinery and central agencies

🧭 Political Context

The exchange reflects heightened political tensions ahead of key electoral battles, where:

• Allegations of misuse of power
• Counter-accusations of inflammatory rhetoric

…have become central themes in campaign narratives.

The Election Commission of India typically evaluates such complaints under the MCC to ensure campaigns remain free, fair, and issue-based.

🧠 What Happens Next?

• The EC may seek clarification from Kharge
• It could issue a notice or advisory
• In case of violations, it may impose restrictions or warnings

The outcome will depend on whether the Commission deems the remark a breach of election guidelines.

⚖️ Why This Matters

This episode highlights the delicate balance between:

• Political criticism and free speech
• Maintaining civility in public discourse during elections