This confrontation marks a significant escalation in the ongoing tensions between the two political figures. Kharge's remarks suggest a deepening rift, as he accuses Kejriwal of deliberately spreading misinformation to undermine the Congress party's credibility.
The relationship between the Congress and AAP has been fraught with disagreements, particularly concerning administrative control in Delhi. In May 2023, the central government introduced an ordinance affecting the transfer and posting of bureaucrats in Delhi, effectively overturning a Supreme Court decision that had granted the elected Delhi government authority over such matters. The Congress party, under Kharge's leadership, opposed this ordinance, viewing it as an attempt to undermine federalism. Kejriwal expressed gratitude to Kharge for this support, stating, "Thank you Kharge ji for standing with the people of Delhi. This ordinance is anti-India and anti-national and ought to be fought tooth and nail."
Despite this moment of alignment, tensions resurfaced over the inauguration of the new Parliament building in May 2023. Both Kharge and Kejriwal criticized the government for not inviting President Droupadi Murmu to the event, suggesting that the decision was influenced by her caste. Kharge remarked, "It looks like the Modi Government has ensured the election of President of India from the Dalit and the Tribal communities only for electoral reasons." Kejriwal echoed this sentiment, highlighting past instances where the President was allegedly overlooked for significant events.