Fri Jan 31 11:06:03 UTC 2025: ## Congress Leaders’ Remarks on President Murmu Spark Political Row
**New Delhi:** A political firestorm erupted today after Congress leaders Sonia and Rahul Gandhi made comments about President Droupadi Murmu appearing “exhausted” during her address to Parliament. The Rashtrapati Bhavan swiftly denounced the remarks as “unfortunate,” “in poor taste,” and deeply disrespectful to the presidential office.
Sonia Gandhi, speaking to reporters after the President’s speech, described President Murmu as looking “very tired” and “could hardly speak.” Rahul Gandhi reportedly assisted his mother with her comments.
The BJP strongly condemned the statements, with party chief J.P. Nadda calling them derogatory and demanding an immediate apology. He further characterized the comments as reflecting the Congress party’s “elitist, anti-poor, and anti-tribal nature.”
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju echoed the BJP’s condemnation, emphasizing President Murmu’s extensive work for the country and her strength as a tribal woman. He demanded an apology from the Congress leadership.
The Rashtrapati Bhavan released a statement refuting the allegations of the President’s fatigue, asserting that she felt energized by delivering her speech, particularly its focus on marginalized communities. The statement suggested the Congress leaders may have misconstrued the President’s demeanor. The office concluded by stating that such comments are “unacceptable” and undermine the dignity of the presidency. The exchange marks a significant escalation of the ongoing war of words between the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress party.
First Piper 