BJP Criticizes Congress Over Mockery of PM Modi’s Background

Tensions escalated between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress on December 3, 2025, following comments made by Congress leaders mocking Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a “chaiwala,” or tea seller. BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla condemned these remarks, asserting that Congress cannot accept a Prime Minister from an Other Backward Classes (OBC) background who has risen from humble beginnings.

In a post on X, Poonawalla expressed his discontent, stating that Congress has consistently targeted Modi’s past and family. He noted, “After Renuka Chowdhury insults Parliament, now Ragini Nayak attacks and mocks PM Modi’s chaiwala background. Naamdar Congress cannot stand a kamdar PM from OBC community who has come from a poor background.” He emphasized that the party has previously disrespected Modi and his family, claiming that “people will never forgive them.”

AI-Generated Video Sparks Controversy

The controversy ignited after Congress leader Nayak shared an AI-generated video showing Modi serving tea at an international gathering. Modi has openly discussed how his father operated a tea stall at Vadnagar station in Gujarat, where he assisted during his childhood. This portrayal, according to BJP representatives, seeks to undermine the Prime Minister’s journey from modest origins.

The situation intensified when Chowdhury made a controversial remark about “real dogs” in Parliament. BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra criticized her statement, stating it diminished the dignity of the parliamentary institution. He claimed that Chowdhury’s comments implied that the Members of Parliament (MPs) were the ones who “bite,” and that Rahul Gandhi’s response indicating that “it’s allowed inside” further reinforced the insult.

Chowdhury’s earlier remarks included calling Union Minister Kiren Rijiju “nalayak,” or incompetent, after he criticized the Opposition for obstructing parliamentary proceedings regarding the Special Intensive Revision of voter lists. Chowdhury defended the Opposition’s right to raise issues, contending that mismanagement of the House could not solely be attributed to them. Rijiju responded by acknowledging that while concerns were valid, using them as a reason to stall Parliament was unjustified.

Political Climate and Public Reaction

The exchange between BJP and Congress highlights the ongoing political tensions in India, particularly concerning the representation of leaders from diverse backgrounds. The BJP’s defense of Modi’s background as a badge of honor reflects broader themes of class and identity politics in the region.

Public reaction to these developments continues to unfold, as both parties engage in a war of words that resonates through social media and beyond. The BJP’s strong condemnation of Congress’s remarks illustrates the party’s strategy to galvanize support by appealing to Modi’s narrative of hard work and perseverance.

As the political landscape evolves, the implications of these remarks may influence voter sentiment and party dynamics ahead of future elections. The BJP’s commitment to defending Modi’s legacy against perceived insults underscores the delicate balance of respect and rivalry in Indian politics.