New Delhi, Feb 3 (PTI) – A political storm erupted in the Rajya Sabha on Monday after Congress President and Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge paid tribute to what he estimated as "thousands" of victims of the January 29 Maha Kumbh stampede. His statement drew immediate protests from the treasury benches, prompting Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar to urge him to retract his words.
Kharge, however, stood by his remark, stating, "This is my estimate. If this is not right, the government should tell the truth." He asserted that he was open to correction if the official figures were provided.
The stampede occurred during the Amrit Snan on Mauni Amavasya at the Maha Kumbh. According to the Uttar Pradesh government, 30 people lost their lives, and 60 others were injured. Despite these official figures, Kharge's reference to "thousands" of casualties fueled heated exchanges in the Upper House.
Chairman Dhankhar Calls for Retraction
Expressing concern over the gravity of the statement, Chairman Dhankhar said, "The Leader of Opposition has indicated a scenario using figures in thousands. Whatever is spoken in this House carries great weight. Even if it is later contradicted, it sends a message to the whole world. I appeal to your conscience."Despite repeated calls for a retraction, Kharge refused to back down and instead demanded that the government declare the exact number of casualties. "If I am wrong, I am ready to correct myself. But at least disclose the actual figures," he insisted.
Economic Criticism and Political Clash
Continuing his speech, Kharge launched a sharp attack on the government, accusing it of prioritizing wealthy industrialists while neglecting common citizens suffering under inflation and unemployment."Is this 'Amrit Kaal' (golden era) or 'Vish Kaal' (worst era)? In the last ten years, one lakh farmers have committed suicide," he said, further alleging that the economic situation had worsened under the BJP-led government. He cited the depreciation of the Indian rupee, pointing out that in 2013, Narendra Modi, then Gujarat Chief Minister, had claimed the rupee was in the ICU when it was around ₹60 per dollar. "Now the dollar is over ₹87," Kharge remarked.
Exchange with BJP MP Neeraj Shekhar
During his speech, Kharge was interrupted by BJP MP Neeraj Shekhar, son of former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar. In a heated exchange, Kharge reminded Shekhar of his longstanding association with his late father. "I was a friend of Chandra Shekhar ji, don't interrupt me," he said, leading to further commotion from the ruling benches.Chairman Dhankhar stepped in to defuse the tension, calling Chandra Shekhar "one of the tallest leaders" of India and urging calm. He also reiterated his request for Kharge to withdraw his earlier remarks on the Maha Kumbh casualties.
Tribute to Manmohan Singh
In his speech, Kharge also praised former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, calling him the "architect of modern India's economy." He accused the BJP of repeatedly insulting Singh despite his contributions. "Manmohan ji remained silent and did his work," he said.Despite persistent appeals from the Chair to modify his remarks, Kharge continued his speech without withdrawing his statements, keeping the political atmosphere charged in the Rajya Sabha.
