Mangaluru:A political controversy has erupted after remarks attributed to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge during an election meeting drew sharp criticism from BJP leaders.

BJP MLA Vedavyas Kamath described the statements as “highly objectionable” and accused Kharge of using language that could provoke communal unrest. Referring to the reported comparison of BJP and RSS to a “poisonous snake,” Kamath said such rhetoric was unacceptable in a democratic society.

“While differences in ideology are part of democracy, statements that can incite violence or disturb communal harmony must be condemned,” he said. Kamath also took aim at the Congress party, accusing it of preaching constitutional values while allegedly engaging in divisive politics. He termed it “ironic” that the party had earlier proposed measures to curb hate speech.

The MLA called on Kharge to issue an immediate apology to the BJP, RSS, and the people of the country. The Congress has not yet issued an official response to the criticism.