Congress Leader’s Remarks on Rohit Sharma Spark Political Row, BJP Hits Back

A political controversy erupted after Congress spokesperson Dr. Shama Mohamed made body-shaming remarks against Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma, calling him "overweight" and "the most unimpressive captain India has ever had." The comments, made after Sharma’s dismissal for 15 runs off 17 balls against New Zealand in the ICC Champions Trophy, triggered sharp reactions from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Congress Leader’s Controversial Remarks

Following India's 44-run victory over New Zealand, Mohamed took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to criticize Sharma’s fitness and leadership.

“Rohit Sharma is fat for a sportsman! Need to lose weight! And of course, the most unimpressive Captain India has ever had!” she posted.

In another post, she questioned Sharma’s credentials as a leader, stating:

"What is so world-class about him when compared to his predecessors? He is a mediocre captain as well as a mediocre player who got lucky to be the captain of India."

BJP Reacts Strongly to the Remarks

The BJP swiftly hit back at the Congress leader’s comments, with party spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla leading the charge. In a scathing response, he compared Congress’ electoral failures under Rahul Gandhi to Sharma’s achievements as captain.

"Those who have lost 90 elections under the captaincy of Rahul Gandhi are calling the captaincy of Rohit Sharma unimpressive!"

Mocking Congress’ track record, Poonawalla further added:

"I guess six ducks in Delhi and 90 election losses is impressive, but winning the T20 World Cup isn’t! Rohit has a brilliant track record as captain, by the way!"

‘Mohabbat Ki Dukaan’ vs. ‘Nafrat Ke Bhaijaan’

Poonawalla also took a dig at the Congress party’s "Mohabbat ki Dukaan" (Shop of Love) campaign, alleging that their actions contradicted their messaging.

“They claim to be spreading love but are actually "Nafrat ke Bhaijaan" (Messengers of Hatred). After opposing India’s institutions, armed forces, and national pride, they have now turned against the Indian cricket team as well.”

BJP Leaders Slam Congress Over Disrespect for Athletes

BJP leader Radhika Khera also lashed out at Congress, accusing the party of historically neglecting and humiliating Indian athletes while now mocking a self-made cricketing legend.

"This is the same Congress that denied athletes recognition for decades, and now they have the audacity to mock Rohit Sharma? A party thriving on nepotism is questioning the merit of a champion?"

Rohit Sharma’s Captaincy and India’s Performance

Despite Sharma’s low score against New Zealand, India secured a convincing victory in the crucial Champions Trophy match. Under his captaincy, India recently won the T20 World Cup, adding to his credentials as one of India’s most successful captains.

As political tensions continue to escalate, Rohit Sharma remains focused on leading Team India through the Champions Trophy, while the controversy surrounding Congress' remarks continues to stir debate across social and political circles.