Sonia Gandhi commented on President Droupadi Murmu’s joint Parliament address, saying she was "getting very tired... could hardly speak, poor thing." The remark has drawn criticism from BJP leaders, including PM Modi.
Following President Droupadi Murmu’s address to the joint session of Parliament on January 31, 2025, Congress leader Sonia Gandhi made a remark that quickly sparked controversy. Speaking to reporters after the session, she commented, "The President was getting very tired by the end... She could hardly speak, poor thing."
This statement was met with sharp criticism from several leaders in the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Union Minister Kiren Rijiju was among the first to react, calling Sonia Gandhi’s words “disrespectful” and demanding an apology from the Congress party. He asserted that President Murmu’s speech was “inspiring” and that questioning her stamina or ability was an insult to her position and to the nation as a whole.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also weighed in, strongly condemning Sonia Gandhi’s comment. He stated that it was not just an insult to the President but also a direct attack on the dignity of India’s tribal communities. He emphasized that Droupadi Murmu, who hails from a tribal background, has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the country’s first tribal President, and her speech was a reflection of her dedication and commitment. According to Modi, the Congress leader’s remarks reflected the party’s “elitist mindset” and disregard for leaders from humble backgrounds.
Other BJP leaders echoed similar sentiments, accusing Sonia Gandhi of displaying a “condescending attitude” toward the President. They argued that her choice of words suggested a lack of respect and sensitivity, particularly towards someone holding the highest constitutional office in the country.
In response to the backlash, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra came to her mother’s defense. She clarified that Sonia Gandhi’s words had been taken out of context and misinterpreted. According to Priyanka, her mother had expressed genuine concern for President Murmu’s well-being and had no intention of disrespecting her. She pointed out that Sonia Gandhi has always held the office of the President in high regard, irrespective of political differences.
Despite this clarification, the controversy continues to dominate political discussions, with BJP leaders and supporters calling for an official apology from the Congress party. The debate has also reignited discussions about the nature of political discourse in India and the need for maintaining respect for constitutional authorities, regardless of ideological divides.
Meanwhile, political analysts suggest that this episode could play a role in shaping the narrative leading up to the upcoming elections. The BJP is likely to use Sonia Gandhi’s remark to consolidate its support among tribal communities, while the Congress may attempt to downplay the controversy and shift focus back to policy issues.
As the political storm rages on, it remains to be seen whether this incident will have any lasting impact or if it will fade away in the face of other pressing political developments.
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