‘Attempt to stigmatise dissent’: Opposition hits out at PM Modi over ‘dimagi Naxal’ jibe
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for labeling dissenters as 'dimagi Naxals' during his Independence Day address. The Opposition argues this rhetoric stigmatizes legitimate political dissent and undermines democratic values.
Why it matters
The exchange highlights the deepening polarization in Indian politics regarding the definition of nationalism and the government's tolerance for public dissent.
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Saturday (August 15, 2026) said that people raising their voices for their rights were not anti-national and extended the party’s support to peaceful protests by Gen Z, as the Opposition criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his "dimagi Naxals" remark.
Addressing the Independence Day function at the All India Congress Committee headquarters, Mr. Kharge said attempts to label those questioning the government as anti-national were contrary to the values for which the freedom struggle was fought. “Gen Z, which raises its voice for its rights, is not anti-national," he said, adding that the Congress would stand with movements concerning people’s rights.
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