The BJP has called for an apology from Congress after party president Mallikarjun Kharge advised Congress state units to offer only “fiscally feasible” guarantees in their election campaigns. BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad said Friday that Kharge’s comments show he now understands the risks of “reckless” promises and questioned if he had shared this advice with Rahul Gandhi, who has often promised “instant” monetary transfers to people.
Kharge’s statement has stirred debate as poll guarantees played a key role in Congress wins in states like Himachal Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka, though opponents argue such promises amount to costly “freebies” that strain state finances.
At a press conference, Prasad said, “Kharge has realized that these careless announcements are unsustainable. He and Rahul Gandhi should apologize to the nation. While I commend Kharge for this insight, it should have come sooner.” He also pointed to past Congress slogans, including former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s “garibi hatao” campaign from 1971, which he suggested was another unfulfilled promise.
Contrasting BJP’s approach, Prasad highlighted his party’s focus on promises guided by fiscal responsibility, like providing free grain to 800 million people and support programs for women. The BJP leader’s remarks come after Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister recently suggested a review of the state’s Shakti scheme for free bus travel, following feedback from women who preferred to pay for the service.