INDIA: Congress leader Udit Raj wrapped into controversy over his unapologetic remark upon Indian President Droupadi Murmu. The leader blamed her for indulging in ‘chamchagiri’. The huge conflict arose amid President Murmu’s statement over Gujarat’s salt production.
The President of India said, “India is ranked first in terms of milk production and consumption. The white revolution launched by milk cooperatives in Gujarat is crucial in this regard. Gujarat produces 76% of the salt in the country. The salt produced in Gujarat is said to be consumed by all Indians. (yah kaha jaa sakta hai ki sabhi deshwasi Gujarat kaa namak khate hain.)”
In reply to the President’s statement, the Congress leader tweeted, “There should be no President like Draupadi Murmu ji in any country.” Chamchagiri has limitations as well. It is estimated that 70% of people consume salt from Gujarat. You will know if you live your life by eating salt.”
Amid the huge controversy, Udit Raj again wrote on his social media handle, “My statement is personal to Draupadi Murmu ji and not on behalf of the Congress party. Murmu ji was made a candidate, and votes were sought in the name of Adivasi. Was there no Adivasi after becoming President? If there is a President of the country, there must also be a tribal representative. Crying occurs when people go to the post in the name of the SC/ST and then remain silent.”
Meanwhile, BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla showed intolerance towards such comments and said, “This is not the first time that Congress has shown its true ‘Adivasi-Virodhi’ (Anti-tribal) character.” He further added, “Congress president should take action against Udit Raj and sack him from the party or else this could be seen as they are supporting and endorsing the views of Udit Raj.”
However, this is not the first time a Congress leader has disgraced the President but post this, Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury apologised to President Droupadi Murmu over his ‘rashtrapatni’ remark. So, Tom Vadakkan, another BJP associate, who was an ex-Congress leader, condemned Udit Raj’s comments and demanded strict action against him.
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