Mallikarjun Kharge's Farewell Speech Pokes Fun at Deve Gowda

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge delivered a farewell speech in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday for retiring members, including former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda. During his address, Kharge praised his long association with Gowda, which spans over five decades, but also used the occasion to make a humorous remark about Gowda's political affiliations.

Kharge's comments were particularly directed at Gowda's connection with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In a light-hearted tone, Kharge suggested that while Gowda maintained affectionate ties with him, he metaphorically ‘married’ Modi's alliance. He remarked, "I have known Deve Gowda for more than 54 years, and I have worked with him a lot. Later, I don't know what happened. Wo mohabbat humare saath kiye, shaadi Modi sahab ke sath [he loved us but got married to Modi]." This quip elicited laughter from the assembly, including Prime Minister Modi himself.

As part of the farewell session, Kharge acknowledged the passion and commitment of politicians to serve the nation, mentioning that neither public life nor political careers have a definitive ending.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also addressed the gathering of retiring MPs, extending his gratitude for their contributions and wishing them well in their future political journeys. He remarked that there is 'no full stop in politics', encouraging departing leaders to look forward to what lies ahead.

“Discussions take place on various issues in the House, and every member plays a unique role in those discussions. In moments like these, a common sense of respect is generated, rising above party lines,” he stated. Modi stressed the importance of learning from seasoned politicians like Deve Gowda, Kharge, and others who have long served in parliamentary roles, advising newly elected MPs to heed the wisdom of their experiences.

With 37 members of the Rajya Sabha retiring, this session offered a moment of reflection on the contributions of these political figures, some of whom have spent decades in service to their constituencies and the country at large. Kharge's farewell address served not only as a tribute to their tenures but also as a reminder of the continuity and evolution inherent in the political landscape of India.

As the session concluded, it underscored a shared recognition among politicians of different party affiliations, celebrating dedication to public service and the invaluable lessons in governance that transcend party lines.