Manusmriti row erupts in Rajya Sabha: Kharge's remarks draw fierce BJP attack

A heated confrontation erupted in the Rajya Sabha during the debate on the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, after Congress President and Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge invoked the ‘Manusmriti’ while criticising the government's education policies. His remarks drew immediate objections from Leader of the House J.P. Nadda, who questioned their authenticity and said they could create social discord. BJP MP Sudhanshu Trivedi strongly countered Kharge's claims, citing historical references and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's writings. The exchange led to a major uproar, with the Chair later directing that the disputed remarks be expunged from the House records.