Union Minister Harsh Malhotra fired back at Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday, slamming him for allegedly mocking a distressed farmer. Malhotra claimed Kharge’s insensitivity shows how the “Congress’s own crop is failing,” pointing to the party’s leadership struggles.
The controversy erupted from a viral video where a worried farmer approaches Kharge, explaining how flooding ruined his four-acre field. Instead of showing empathy, Kharge reportedly said he lost 40 acres himself and told the farmer, “Don’t come here for publicity.” This sparked a huge political storm, with many calling out Kharge’s response as tone-deaf.
Talking to , Malhotra said, “Congress’s crop is getting ruined. This is their third or fourth generation of leadership. Even senior leaders like Sonia Gandhi know that Rahul Gandhi cannot lead the party or society. Kharge’s comments were not only insensitive to the farmer but also reflect the internal frustration within the Congress leadership.” He added that Kharge’s words highlight the party’s disconnect from real ground issues and growing alienation from public concerns.
Malhotra didn’t stop there. He took a dig at Kharge’s recent remarks on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s friendship with former US President Donald Trump. Kharge had dismissed their bond and even accused PM Modi of “spoiling the atmosphere” and acting like an “enemy of the nation.” Malhotra shot back, “Congress party and Kharge should worry about themselves. The people of this country care about PM Modi. Every BJP MP, minister, and worker is focused on serving the people. Our government has introduced fundamental changes—just look at the GST reforms.”
He praised the government’s GST overhaul, noting how the Finance Ministry simplified slabs to just 5% and 18%. “This is the first time in history that such comprehensive reform has taken place. Everyone, from small traders to large businesses, is benefiting. Congress had years to do it—they failed. We delivered,” Malhotra emphasized, highlighting how these GST changes boost India’s economy and ease business for millions.
Malhotra also criticized Rahul Gandhi’s recent trip to Malaysia, saying, “Rahul Gandhi seems to have no connection with this country. Whether it’s him or Kharge, neither is interested in the welfare of ordinary citizens.”
Shifting to positive notes, Malhotra highlighted the government’s ongoing public welfare efforts. He announced the upcoming Seva Pakhwada to celebrate PM Modi’s birthday on September 17. “PM Modi has been working tirelessly for 11 years. His government has launched over 250 welfare schemes that are transforming lives. To mark his birthday, the Ministry of Social Justice, in collaboration with BJP workers, will organise camps to provide assistive devices to the elderly and persons with disabilities,” he shared.
The Seva Pakhwada will run until October 2, underscoring the government’s commitment to inclusive growth and service-oriented governance. These initiatives show how PM Modi’s leadership continues to focus on helping everyday Indians.
