The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has intensified its criticism of the Indian National Congress, particularly as the grand old party recently marked its 140th Foundation Day. The BJP's main line of attack centers on what it describes as a lack of internal democracy within the Congress, alleging that the party has become the "private asset" of the Gandhi family.

BJP National Spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia has been particularly vocal, referring to Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi as the "fake Gandhis" who exert undue control over the party. Bhatia argues that Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge is merely a "remote-controlled" figurehead, "helpless" to act independently and simply serving the interests of the Gandhi family. This sentiment echoes earlier remarks by other BJP leaders who described Kharge as a "watchman of the Gandhi family".

According to the BJP, Kharge's perceived subservience is evident in his inability to address concerns raised by senior Congress leaders like Digvijaya Singh and Shashi Tharoor, who have reportedly alluded to a lack of internal democracy within the party. Bhatia claims that Kharge is aware of the "dictatorial style" of the Gandhis but is powerless to challenge it.

The BJP has also criticized Kharge's remarks on the Congress's legacy, arguing that he should also acknowledge the less favorable aspects of the party's history. Bhatia stated that Kharge should have included India's partition, the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, and the imposition of Emergency while discussing the Congress's legacy on its foundation day. He also referenced Mahatma Gandhi's suggestion to dissolve the Congress after independence, which was not heeded.

Furthermore, the BJP alleges that the Congress has become an "army of sycophants," focused solely on serving the Gandhi family. Bhatia went on to say the Congress is the "weakest link" in Indian democracy.

In response to these criticisms, Congress leaders maintain that the party is a strong and vibrant force, committed to democratic values. During the Foundation Day ceremony, Kharge asserted that the Congress represents an ideology that will endure and highlighted the party's contributions to making India the world's largest democracy. However, the BJP's continued attacks suggest that it sees the Congress, particularly under its current leadership structure, as a vulnerable target.