New Delhi, November 9, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The BJP and Shiv Sena have criticised Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge over his description of Diwali as “Khushiyon ka Eid” (Eid of Happiness), accusing the Congress of disrespecting Hindu sentiments and indulging in vote-bank politics.
The controversy followed Kharge’s remarks to reporters over the weekend while extending Diwali greetings. He said, “I extend my best wishes to everyone for Diwali. Many people celebrate it as it is Khushiyon ka Eid.”
Kharge also appealed for peace and national unity, urging people involved in disputes or harbouring misunderstandings to put aside their differences.
BJP national spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari described the remark as evidence of what he called the Congress’s anti-Hindu mindset. He accused the party of using religious references for political gains and linked the controversy to earlier statements by Sonia Gandhi concerning the demolition of the Babri Masjid and the Batla House encounter.
BJP MLA Ram Kadam also questioned the Congress, alleging that it was turning a religious festival into an issue of appeasement instead of simply extending Diwali greetings.
Shiv Sena spokesperson Manisha Kayande accused the Congress of sending contradictory political messages in an attempt to win support from different communities. She said the party was trying to project itself as secular on some occasions and supportive of Hindutva on others, describing its approach as politically confused.
The opposition leaders alleged that Kharge’s choice of words reflected the Congress’s attempt to appeal to minority voters. Their criticism centred on the use of the Eid reference in his Diwali greeting, while Kharge’s remarks also included an appeal for harmony and reconciliation.
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