Wed Mar 05 18:00:26 UTC 2025: ## Madhya Pradesh Minister Sparks Outrage with “Alms” Remarks, Faces Party Backlash

**Bhopal, India** – Madhya Pradesh’s Panchayat and Rural Development Minister, Prahlad Patel, is facing intense criticism after referring to government welfare benefits as “alms” and accusing citizens of developing a “begging habit.” His comments have ignited a political firestorm, with the opposition Congress party staging a dramatic protest involving the delivery of begging bowls to the BJP’s office.

Patel’s remarks, made on Saturday, sparked immediate outrage. He stated that reliance on freebies weakens society and urged citizens to cultivate a “mindset of giving.” His statement further asserted that this “army of beggars” undermines societal strength, and that true respect for martyrs lies in emulating their values, not expecting handouts.

The Congress party swiftly condemned Patel’s words. In Mandsaur, party workers burned his effigy, while posters denouncing him appeared in Indore. In Bhopal, Congress leaders symbolically sent begging bowls to the BJP headquarters via online delivery, highlighting their opposition to Patel’s characterization of welfare programs. Congress spokesperson Mithun Ahirwar explained that the online delivery was necessary as begging is banned in Bhopal.

Adding to the controversy, Patel subsequently deleted a social media post mentioning the BJP president, fueling speculation of displeasure from the party’s higher echelons. While senior BJP leaders in Bhopal largely avoided direct comment, state general secretary Bhagwan Das Sabnani offered a brief “Jai Siya Ram,” and Assembly Speaker Narendra Singh Tomar stated that while he believed Patel’s intentions were not malicious, he hadn’t yet spoken with him. The incident underscores growing tensions within the ruling BJP in Madhya Pradesh.

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