Modi and Kharge share light moment at Ambedkar Jayanti in Parliament

A rare and light-hearted moment between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress president, Mallikarjun Kharge, drew attention at Parliament premises on Tuesday, as leaders gathered to pay tribute to Dr BR Ambedkar, the chief architect of the Constitution and the country’s first Law Minister, on his 135th birth anniversary.

In a video that quickly went viral online, the two political rivals were seen exchanging smiles and laughter at Prerna Sthal after offering floral tributes.

The brief interaction stood out against the backdrop of their usual political differences, offering a glimpse of camaraderie during a solemn national occasion.

The footage shows Prime Minister Modi first greeting Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman CP Radhakrishnan before turning to Kharge.

As the two leaders shake hands, they share a warm and animated exchange, breaking into laughter.

The interaction appeared relaxed and cordial, with other leaders present also seen smiling at the moment.

The Prime Minister then continued greeting other parliamentarians, staff, and security personnel at the venue.

WHAT THEY TALKED ABOUT

Sources told India Today that during the interaction, PM Modi also urged Kharge, the Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, to support the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam (Women's Reservation Act 2023), paving the way for 33 per cent of Parliament and Assembly seats for woman leaders by 2029.

Emphasising that the legislation is in the interest of women, the Prime Minister described it as a collective responsibility.

Kharge responded that he would take a position after internal consultations within his party.

The interaction took place ahead of a scheduled parliamentary session from April 16 to 18, during which the amendment bill is expected to be introduced.

TRIBUTE TO BABASAHEB AMBEDKAR

Earlier in the day, top leaders including Prime Minister Modi, Vice President Radhakrishnan, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, and Kharge paid floral tributes to Babasaheb Ambedkar at his statue within the Parliament complex.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju was also present.

Ambedkar, regarded as the chief architect of the Indian Constitution and independent India’s first Law Minister, is commemorated annually at Parliament with large numbers of leaders and citizens gathering to honour his legacy.

The brief but notable exchange between PM Modi and Kharge added a lighter touch to the ceremony, momentarily setting aside political divisions on a day dedicated to remembering one of India’s most influential nation-builders.

- Ends

With PTI inputs

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