A comment made by former Congress president Sonia Gandhi regarding President Droupadi Murmu has sparked controversy. She noted during a press interaction after the President’s address to a joint session of Parliament that Murmu appeared “very tired” and “could hardly speak, poor thing”. This remark prompted a strong rebuke from Rashtrapati Bhavan, condemning her statement about the country’s first citizen.
In a clear statement, Murmu’s office asserted, “Nothing could be farther from the truth. The President was not tired at any point. She believes that advocating for marginalized communities, women, and farmers, as she was doing during her address, can never be exhausting.”
The President’s office also suggested that some leaders may not fully grasp the nuances of Indian languages, like Hindi, which could have led to a misinterpretation. They characterized Sonia Gandhi’s comments as regretful and disrespectful to the dignity of the office she holds.
Sonia Gandhi’s remarks followed the customary Presidential address marking the opening of the budget session of Parliament. Accompanied by her children, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, she expressed her thoughts to the press, implying that the President’s lengthy speech may have been taxing.
In response, Priyanka defended her mother, stating that it was unfortunate for Sonia’s words to be misconstrued by the media. She emphasized, “My mother is 78 years old and merely noted that reading such a long speech could have been tiring for the President. She has great respect for the President of India and intends no disrespect.”
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, along with other BJP members, demanded an apology from the Congress party, stating, “I strongly condemn the comments made by Sonia Gandhi and other opposition leaders. Our President, being a tribal woman, is not weak. Droupadi Murmu has dedicated herself extensively to the nation and society, and those comments are unacceptable. They should apologize to her.”
