NEW DELHI: The BJP and Congress traded criticism after a stand-up comedian mimicked Prime Minister Narendra Modi during an event attended by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, as per media reports.
The performance took place during the latest edition of the ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ programme on Saturday. A video shared by the Congress showed comedian Pulkit Mani joining Gandhi on stage and impersonating Modi during a brief exchange.
असंस्कारी नाराज़ फूफा!
The irony writes itself. The need to come on stage every now and then just to drag Prime Minister Modi ji’s name into cheap political theatre never fails to amaze me.
Look in the mirror, Mr Rahul Gandhi. https://t.co/GfCx32dB7J
— Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) September 20, 2026
The performance included references to PM Modi and his mother, prompting criticism from BJP leaders. The BJP accused Gandhi and the Congress of using the Prime Minister and his family for political entertainment.
Several BJP leaders described the act as disrespectful and questioned the Congress leadership over the performance. They also criticised the party for allowing such remarks at a public event.
Congress leaders defended the programme and rejected the criticism, saying political leaders and public figures should be open to criticism, humour and mimicry. Some, however, said abusive language should not be used in public discourse.
Congress leaders also accused the BJP of selectively raising concerns over remarks involving political leaders’ families and mothers.
The ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ programme was focused on issues affecting students and young people, including education costs and employment opportunities. Gandhi addressed students during the Indore session.
The controversy comes amid a broader political exchange between the two parties over the tone of public and political discourse.
