H.D. Deve Gowda Responds to Kharge's Remarks on Political Alliances

In a recent exchange in Parliament, former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda responded to Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge's humorous remarks about their political relationship. Gowda likened his alliance with Congress to a forced marriage that ended in a necessary divorce, emphasizing that it was Congress that left him. He further explained his shift towards the BJP for a more stable coalition, highlighting the evolving political landscape in Karnataka. This witty back-and-forth sheds light on the complexities of political alliances in India.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 18, 2026, 19:59 IST

Deve Gowda's Response to Kharge's Comments

Former Prime Minister and Rajya Sabha member H.D. Deve Gowda has addressed the remarks made by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge regarding marriage and love. Kharge, who is the leader of the opposition in the Rajya Sabha, humorously noted their long-standing relationship but questioned why, despite his affection for Congress, Gowda chose to align with Prime Minister Modi, referencing their coalition.

In a light-hearted retort, Gowda stated that he felt he was forced into a 'marriage' with Congress, which ultimately became an abusive relationship, leading him to seek a 'divorce.' He emphasized that it was Congress that abandoned him, prompting his alliance with the BJP for a more stable coalition. He remarked that his dear friend Kharge had made a playful comment in Parliament about his 'love' for Congress and 'marriage' with the BJP, expressing confusion over the situation.

Gowda elaborated that if he were to respond in the same vein, he would say that his 'forced marriage' with Congress necessitated a 'divorce' due to its disrespectful nature. He clarified that he did not leave the Congress alliance; rather, they distanced themselves from him, leaving him with no choice but to seek a more stable partnership. The Janata Dal (Secular) (JDS) had formed a government in Karnataka with Congress from 2018 to 2019, which collapsed in July 2019.

Later, the JDS shifted its stance and joined the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) at the central level in 2023, indicating a strategic political alliance with the ruling BJP. H.D. Kumaraswamy from JDS now serves as a cabinet minister in Modi's government.