'Italian Blood In Her Veins': Congress Slams HD Kumaraswamy Over Sonia Gandhi Remark

Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy has ignited a fresh political row after questioning former Congress president Sonia Gandhi’s foreign origin, prompting a sharp counterattack from the Congress which declared her "more Indian than many Indians".

The feud erupted following a controversy over the singing of the national song Vande Mataram during the 80th Independence Day celebrations at the Congress headquarters.

Sparks Fly Over Origin

Targeting Sonia Gandhi, Kumaraswamy questioned her roots and alleged opposition to the national sentiment.

"What else can be expected from her? Does she belong to our country? She came to our country after marriage and the blood flowing in her veins is Italian," the Union Minister said, adding that party leaders need not show narrow-mindedness over the national song. 

He further questioned her personal contribution, stating that while her late husband Rajiv Gandhi made sacrifices for the nation, Sonia Gandhi had made none and was opposing Indian sentiments.

Congress Hits Back Strongly

Karnataka Cabinet Minister Rizwan Arshad lashed out at the Union Minister, calling him a "depressed person" and defending the veteran leader's credentials.

 "If he is talking like this, he should know that Sonia ji is more Indian than many Indians. Her family has sacrificed their lives for this country and they are always fighting for a united and just India," Arshad said in response to the allegations.

• The row erupted after controversy during Independence Day celebrations at Congress office.
• H.D. Kumaraswamy raised Sonia Gandhi's Italian origin and questioned her sacrifice.
• Congress minister Rizwan Arshad called Kumaraswamy "depressed" and defended Sonia Gandhi.
• Congress clarified the viral video was a gesture requesting a chair for Mallikarjun Kharge.

Party Clarifies Flag-Hoisting Video

The Congress firmly denied allegations that its leaders attempted to halt or disrespect the singing of the national song. Clarifying the viral footage from the August 15 event, the party explained that the gesture shown on camera was merely a signal asking for a chair for Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, which was being misrepresented for political gain.

Legal Complaints Filed

The controversy stems from video clips of the event where claims were made that Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi raised objections during the performance. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders Vikas K and Rajagopal lodged a complaint at the Urva police station in Mangaluru, Karnataka.