Senior Congress leader and former Karnataka assembly speaker K.R. Ramesh Kumar, on Thursday, caused huge embarrassment to his party with his shocking remarks that the party leaders made enough wealth to last them for next three-four generations in the name of Indira Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi.
Kumar, who is not new to controversial remarks, was speaking during the Congress party's protest held in Bengaluru against the ED summons to party president Sonia Gandhi in the National Herald case.
"Today, Sonia Gandhi should know that the Congress party workers are standing with her as they feel indebted to the Gandhi family. If she is convinced that we are only paying back for the hardships suffered by her mother-in-law, Pandit Nehru, her husband (Rajiv Gandhi) and son (Rahul Gandhi), we would be justifying every morsel we have," said Kumar, who represents the Srinivasapura (Kolar) constituency.
"We have earned enough to last us for the next three to four generations in the name of Indira Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi. Now, if are not prepared for small sacrifices, I am afraid the the food we eat will be infested with worms," said Kumar.
Kumar's remark triggered a political slugfest as the ruling BJP welcomed the statement and called it an "admission of the loot" that the Congress party had been indulging over several decades.
"We congratulate the intelligent leader who described how the Congress party looted India in 60 years of their rule. With what face will you (Congress) seek votes from people after your senior party leader has honestly admitted to have indulged in rampant corruption?,” tweeted Karnatala BJP.
Meanwhile, the city witnessed massive protest rally leading to long traffic jams even as KPCC chief D.K. Shivakumar and CLP leader Siddaramaiah led a rally from Freedom Park towards Raj Bhavan. The Congress leaders were taken into custody by the police before they could reach the governor's residence.
At least two cars were set ablaze by the protesters.
