Guwahati, October 27 (IANS). A political storm has erupted in Assam after Karnataka Rural Development Minister and Congress leader Priyank Kharge made controversial remarks questioning the potential and talent of Assam’s youth in the context of India’s growing semiconductor industry.
Kharge’s remarks have sparked outrage across the state, drawing strong condemnation from Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party.
The Chief Minister launched a scathing attack on Kharge, terming his statement as an “insult to the dignity and hard work of the youth of Assam”.
Speaking to reporters, Chief Minister Sarma said, “Priyank Kharge has exposed himself as a fool of the first order. His comments reflect a deeply prejudiced mindset that looks down on the youth of Assam. By questioning their education and capability, he has insulted every young professional of our state. Congress has not condemned his words, which clearly shows how he views the Northeast. We respect him.” “We are exploring legal options against him for his divisive and derogatory remarks.”
Assam BJP also hit back through a scathing post on social media and ridiculed Kharge for his “arrogant outburst”.
Junior Kharge, apart from being born as the son of senior Kharge, do you have any real skills, the party said? This father-son party has made a habit of insulting Assam.”
Accusing the state Congress unit of maintaining silence, the BJP said, “Once again their local brigade, including their Paijans, will seal their lips with Fevicol.”
It is noteworthy that while talking to the media on the semiconductor investment schemes of the Central Government, Kharge expressed his displeasure over the approval of projects for Gujarat and Assam instead of Karnataka.
He reportedly said, “Why are semiconductor industries going to Gujarat and Assam when they should be in Bengaluru? Investments earmarked for Karnataka are being diverted elsewhere. What is there in these two states? Is there any talent in Assam and Gujarat?”
The comment was considered by many to be insulting and elitist, and has been widely criticized across the political spectrum and civil society of Assam. Several organizations have demanded a public apology from the Congress leader for what they termed an “insult to the people of the North-East”.
The controversy is growing, with students’ unions, civil society groups and professionals condemning Kharge’s remarks as “elitist” and “regionally biased” and demanding an unconditional apology to the people of Assam.
–IANS
ASH/DKP