Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has hit out at Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, alleging that his statements reflect a mindset distant from Indian culture. Sarma also referred to the controversy surrounding Dr. Bhupen Hazarika and the Bharat Ratna, and made a sharp remark comparing Kharge's mindset to Pakistani culture. His comments have added to the political exchange between the BJP and the Congress.