Kharge’s comment on Deve Gowda sparks light moment in Rajya Sabha, PM Modi smiles

A light moment in the Rajya Sabha drew laughter across party lines after Mallikarjun Kharge made a witty remark about H. D. Deve Gowda and his political alliances, even prompting a smile from Narendra Modi.

Speaking during a farewell session for retiring members, Kharge quipped that Deve Gowda had “loved” the Congress but eventually “married Modiji”, in an apparent reference to the Janata Dal (Secular)’s shifting political alignments over the years.

The remark, delivered in a lighter tone, triggered laughter across the House, with members from both the Treasury and Opposition benches reacting to the comment. Prime Minister Modi was also seen laughing at the exchange, adding to the moment of camaraderie in an otherwise politically charged environment.

Kharge’s comment came while he was paying tribute to outgoing members of the Upper House, including senior leaders like Deve Gowda. The speech combined appreciation for their parliamentary contributions with subtle political messaging wrapped in humour.

The context of the remark lies in the shifting alliances in Karnataka politics, where the JD(S), led by Deve Gowda and his family, has alternated between partnerships with the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Earlier in the session, Prime Minister Modi addressed retiring members, noting that public life has “no full stop” and encouraging them to continue contributing to society beyond Parliament.