New Delhi: Sam Pitroda, the Chairman of Indian Overseas Congress, has stepped down from his position following a massive row over his racist remarks. The controversy erupted when Pitroda compared Indians from different parts of the nation to Chinese, Arabs, Whites, and Africans during an interview, discussing diversity and democracy in India. Congress Chief Mallikarjun Kharge has accepted Pitroda’s resignation.
In the interview widely circulated on social media, Pitroda stated, “We are a shining example of democracy in the world… We could hold a country together as diverse as India, where people in the East look like Chinese, people in the West look like Arabs, people in the North look like whites, and people in the South look like Africans. It doesn’t matter; we are all brothers and sisters.” His remarks drew sharp criticism, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemning them during a Telangana rally. PM Modi emphasized that such a “racist mentality” would not be accepted.
The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) targeted Pitroda over his comments, claiming that they exposed the “divisive” politics of the opposition party. Meanwhile, Congress distanced itself from Pitroda’s statements, calling them unfortunate and unacceptable. Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh stated that the analogies given by Sam Pitroda regarding India’s diversities were “extremely wrong and unacceptable,” and the Indian National Congress completely disassociated itself from these analogies.
Pitroda’s resignation comes at a critical juncture, highlighting the tensions surrounding his remarks and their impact on the political landscape. The incident underscores the delicate balance between celebrating India’s diversity while avoiding divisive rhetoric.
