Complaint against Sonia Gandhi over 'poor thing' remark on President
What's the story
A complaint has been filed against Congress leader Sonia Gandhi in a Bihar court for her remarks against President Droupadi Murmu.
The complaint was filed in a Muzaffarpur district court by lawyer Sudhir Ojha, who accused Gandhi of disrespecting the country's highest constitutional authority.
Ojha also named Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra as co-accused in the case, seeking legal action under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Controversial comments
Gandhi's remarks on President Murmu spark controversy
The controversy started after a clip showed Sonia speaking about President Murmu's address to Parliament before the Budget session. She said, "The President was getting very tired by the end... she could hardly speak, poor thing."
In another of the clips, Rahul called the speech "boring."
The Rashtrapati Bhavan condemned the remarks as "unacceptable," claiming Murmu wasn't tired and such comments hurt the dignity of the high office.
Apology demanded
BJP leaders demand apology from Sonia Gandhi
The remarks triggered a political storm, with Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders demanding an apology from Sonia.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused the Congress of insulting Murmu and marginalized communities. He said, "This is an insult to 10 crore tribal brothers and sisters and every poor person who has risen from the ground."
BJP chief JP Nadda also slammed Sonia's words as "deeply disrespectful."
Defense
Congress leaders defend Sonia Gandhi amid controversy
Several NDA ministers also joined the chorus demanding an apology, with Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju leading the charge.
However, Congress leaders defended Sonia, alleging her words were twisted by the BJP for political mileage.
Party president Mallikarjun Kharge accused the government of disrespecting President Murmu by not including her in important events.
Priyanka also defended her mother, claiming Sonia had "utmost respect" for Murmu and her comments were twisted by the media.