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On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi targeted his predecessor Manmohan Singh in the Rajya Sabha, saying the “art of bathing in a bathroom with a raincoat on” is known only to the former prime minister as there is “no blot on him” despite “all the scams”.
Soon after, Modi was at the receiving end of criticism from across the political spectrum, dubbing the barb as demeaning.
Here are some reactions.
“We are very, very disappointed by what the PM said yesterday. I do not think in the history of Indian parliamentary democracy, we have ever heard the PM insulting his predecessor in such a manner using bathroom analogy. This is simply not heard of (before).
“In politics, there can be differences but you will never find this kind of statement in our parliamentary debate. PM should withdraw such remarks. There are political differences in our country. In election campaign, people say rude things to each other. But in the House, certain decorum must be maintained. We feel strongly that it should not have happened.
“We have asked for an apology because he has not withdrawn it so far. If he withdraws it, then the matter will end. But if he does not withdraw, then apology is the only way in which he can make up for the hurt he has caused unnecessarily.”
-- Shashi Tharoor, Congress leader
“Maybe we are not politically aligned with each other, but we can never expect a person who is the prime minister of the country to lower the discourse to this level. History will bear witness to what contribution was made by Manmohan Singh as prime minister, as finance minister and in different other capacities. If you cannot respect somebody’s contribution, at least learn to remain silent. By making such derogatory statements, you’re only exposing yourself, Mr prime minister!
“I have never seen a prime minister stooping so low in attacking his opponent. This is the time when we all should urge Mr prime minister. Elections will come and go. Please, learn to address your opponents in a more civilised way and expression. Because, that is what India has always cherished and valued.”
-- Manoj Jha, Rashtriya Janata Dal leader
“It’s extremely shameful for the entire nation that a senior and graceful politician like Manmohanji had to bear the brunt of our PM, Narendra Modi’s jibes. His remarks, “The art of taking bath wearing a raincoat must be learnt from Manmohan Singh” were extremely demeaning. Manmohan ji is an epitome of grace and maturity that he even refused to respond to our PM.”
-- Robert Vadra, son-in-law of Congress president Sonia Gandhi
“If ex PM Manmohan Singh was wearing raincoat in bathroom may I ask PM Modi what were you wearing CM Gujarat when Ehsan Jafri & others where butchered (sic).
-- Asaduddin Owaisi, All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen chief