Brinda Karat, a Politburo member of Communist Party of India (Marxist), has strongly criticised BJP President JP Nadda for his silence regarding Maharashtra Minister Nitesh Rane’s controversial “Mini-Pakistan” remark about Kerala.
In a statement to ANI, Karat said, “If a BJP leader can make such inflammatory statements about Kerala, a state that exemplifies pluralism and harmony, it is because they are emboldened by the party’s leadership’s inaction.”
Karat emphasised that Nadda, who frequently comments on political developments, should condemn Rane’s remarks, which she described as an “insult” to Kerala’s history, culture, and people. She questioned the BJP’s stance, asking why its leadership, including Nadda, has not criticised such divisive statements.
“This is not just about Nitesh Rane; this reflects what BJP as a party thinks. If BJP president fails to condemn these comments, it signals implicit approval. Kerala’s history, culture, and people have been insulted – will the BJP take action? Where are the BJP leaders in Kerala? Can they dare criticise such remarks?” Karat asked pointedly.
She also reiterated Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s condemnation of Rane’s statements, calling them “deplorable” and “provocative.” Karat added that the remarks were rooted in falsehoods and resentment, stressing that it is BJP’s responsibility to hold Rane accountable.
