By: The Trek News Desk
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has issued a clarification regarding his controversial statement about Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating that he did not refer to the Prime Minister as a “terrorist,” but was instead highlighting what he described as intimidation of political opponents by the current government.
Speaking to the media on Tuesday (April 21, 2026), Kharge explained that his remarks were in the context of what he termed “tax terrorism.” He alleged that central agencies such as the Enforcement Directorate (ED), Income Tax Department, and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) are being used to exert pressure on opposition leaders and candidates, thereby impacting the democratic process.
Kharge emphasised that his intention was not to use offensive language against the Prime Minister personally, but to draw attention to what he claims is the misuse of investigative agencies to silence dissent and weaken political rivals ahead of elections.
The controversy stems from an earlier press conference in Chennai, where Kharge criticised the alliance between the AIADMK and the BJP. During his remarks, he made a statement that was interpreted as calling the Prime Minister a “terrorist,” which quickly sparked political backlash.
As the row escalated, Kharge clarified that his comment was meant to describe an atmosphere of fear in politics, not to label the Prime Minister personally. He reiterated that his concern was about policies and actions that, in his view, create pressure on opposition parties.
The statement has drawn sharp criticism from BJP leaders, who have termed it inappropriate and a personal attack on the Prime Minister.
The issue has since intensified political tensions, with both parties engaging in a war of words, further heating the current political climate.
Source: News Agencies
