In a recent development, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has accepted an invitation from former judges and a senior journalist for a public debate with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This move stirred reactions from the BJP, questioning Gandhi’s readiness for such a discourse, citing concerns about his grasp of pertinent issues and his political standing. Notably, he holds neither the presidency of his party nor the leadership of the opposition.
During a press conference, BJP spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi took a jibe at Gandhi, particularly highlighting his assertion that the opposition INDIA bloc would secure victory in the Lok Sabha polls. Trivedi remarked skeptically, pointing out Gandhi’s inability to file his nomination from Amethi and questioning his credibility in discussing national governance. “Phenomenon thy name is Rahul Gandhi,” he quipped sarcastically.
Trivedi further raised doubts about Gandhi’s authority to engage in a debate with Modi, emphasizing that Gandhi’s role is limited to being a Member of Parliament within his party.
Earlier, Gandhi had expressed his party’s approval of the proposal and confirmed acceptance of the debate invitation. He conveyed his response via a post on X, formerly known as Twitter. Gandhi’s post articulated the significance of major political parties presenting their visions collectively for a robust democratic process. He urged the Prime Minister’s participation, emphasizing the public’s expectation for such dialogue.
The invitation for the debate originated from a senior journalist and two former judges, who urged both Modi and Gandhi to engage in a public discourse on the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. Responding to their invitation, Gandhi expressed readiness for the debate, highlighting its potential to elucidate the respective visions of the competing parties and dispel unfounded allegations.
In response to Gandhi’s acceptance, N Ram, one of the invitees, endorsed Gandhi’s willingness to engage in constructive dialogue with Modi, underscoring the importance of addressing pertinent issues facing the nation.
However, BJP leaders responded critically to Gandhi’s acceptance, asserting that he lacks the authority to represent his party or the INDI Alliance in such a debate. BJP leader Tejasvi Surya dismissed Gandhi’s candidacy for Prime Minister, emphasizing the need for him to secure formal endorsement from his party before engaging in debates of national significance.
Similarly, Amit Malviya, head of the BJP IT cell, questioned the rationale behind debating with Gandhi, given his non-existent role as the Congress President or the face of the INDI Alliance. Malviya criticized the Congress for attempting to leverage Modi’s popularity to bolster Gandhi’s political stature.