"Unbecoming in a Democracy": Pushkar Dhami Slams Kharge Over Remarks Against PM Modi
Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Dhami criticizes Mallikarjun Kharge and Akhilesh Yadav over remarks against PM Modi and the people of Uttarakhand.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has launched a scathing attack on Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav, accusing them of crossing the line of decency and insulting the people of Uttarakhand. The Chief Minister's reaction comes in the wake of controversial statements made during a political event in Patna.
Outrage Over Remarks on PM Modi's Father
The controversy erupted after a remark was made at an event in Patna suggesting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would not step down or leave. In response, Mallikarjun Kharge allegedly stated, "Modi ka baap bhi jayega" (Even Modi's father will go).
Reacting to this, CM Pushkar Singh Dhami termed the comment as "absurd and inappropriate." He stated that making such remarks about the Prime Minister’s father is entirely unbecoming in a democracy and represents a complete collapse of the norms of decency.
Targeting Akhilesh Yadav and the "Infiltrator" Comment
The Chief Minister did not stop there, turning his fire toward Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav. Dhami alleged that Yadav had used the term "infiltrators" when referring to the residents of Uttarakhand, a comment the CM found deeply offensive.
Dhami pointed out the irony of such language, noting that Akhilesh Yadav’s own wife hails from Uttarakhand. He argued that, at the very least, the SP chief should refrain from using derogatory language against the people of his wife's home state.
Recalling the Statehood Struggle
Bringing up historical grievances, the Uttarakhand CM referenced the statehood movement, alleging that Akhilesh Yadav’s father, during his time as Chief Minister, had ordered police firing on agitators. He specifically mentioned tragic incidents at Rampur Tiraha, Mussoorie, Khatima, and Shriyantra Tapu, questioning if such behavior was to be expected from the family.
Congress Put in the Hot Seat
CM Dhami also questioned the political morality of the alliance between the Congress and the Samajwadi Party. He challenged the Congress leadership to clarify its priorities, asking whether they value their political alliance with Akhilesh Yadav more than the self-respect of the people of Uttarakhand.
Infrastructure Boost: New Bridge and Tunnel in Rudraprayag
Amidst the political storm, Chief Minister Dhami also focused on the state's development during his visit to Rudraprayag. He inspected a significant new infrastructure project developed under the Char Dham road initiative.
Connecting Kedarnath and Badrinath
The newly constructed project, built at an estimated cost of Rs 156 crore, includes:
- A 200-meter-long bridge spanning the Alaknanda River.
- A 900.30-meter-long tunnel.
- Approach roads bringing the total project length to approximately 1.18 kilometres.
This critical link directly connects the Kedarnath National Highway (NH-107) with the Badrinath National Highway (NH-07). Trial runs for vehicular movement began on Monday, with a formal inauguration expected soon.
Relief for Pilgrims and Locals
The new bypass is set to be a game-changer for the region. Once fully operational, pilgrims traveling to the holy shrines of Kedarnath and Badrinath will no longer need to navigate the congested main market of Rudraprayag. This is expected to drastically reduce traffic jams, benefiting both local residents and devotees during the peak Char Dham Yatra season.
Chief Minister Dhami emphasized that modern infrastructure is a top priority for the state government, as it not only ensures a safer and smoother journey for pilgrims but also stimulates local trade, tourism, and employment.
Additionally, the CM reviewed slope stabilization and protection works in landslide-prone areas along the Rudraprayag-Gaurikund National Highway to ensure commuter safety.