ThePrint ThePrintAM: What’s behind Karnataka minister Priyank Kharge’s RSS-bashing?
Nov 1, 2025
The podcast dives into Priyank Kharge's pointed criticism of the RSS and BJP, exploring his demands for transparency in their funding. It highlights his political background and the implications of his aggressive stance, potentially strengthening support among marginalized groups. The discussion also touches on the internal Congress dynamics in response to sympathies towards RSS, and ongoing tensions within the Muslim community due to the government's inaction. Kharge is seen as building a coalition among Dalit and Muslim youth, aiming for lasting political influence.
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Priyank Kharge's Defining Critique
- Priyank Kharge is widely known for his relentless public criticism of the RSS and BJP leadership.
- He questions the RSS's impunity and refusal to share registration or funding details.
Rapid Rise From Designer To Minister
- Priyank Kharge is the son of Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge and rose rapidly in Karnataka politics after first entering the Assembly in 2013.
- He balanced roles as IT minister with a background in graphic design and tech jobs in London.
Caste Politics Limits Party Aggression
- Congress in Karnataka avoids antagonizing dominant communities like Lingayats even while leaders like Kharge take stronger anti-RSS positions.
- That caution reflects entrenched caste politics and past electoral mistakes the party wants to avoid.