Rahul Gandhi Claims PM Modi Would Lose His Position After One-on-One Debate with Him

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday renewed his challenge to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a direct public debate, asserting that the prime minister would not continue in office after a one-on-one face-off between the two leaders. During an interactive 'Ask Me' session on Instagram, Gandhi was asked why he continued to demand a separate public debate when the BJP maintained that Parliament was the appropriate place for such an exchange. In response, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha alleged that he was not given sufficient opportunities to speak in the House and claimed that his microphone had been switched off on several occasions.

Gandhi cited several issues that he said he had been prevented from discussing, including the farm laws, alleged vote manipulation, the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, China's actions, General MM Naravane's book and the Jeffrey Epstein controversy. He said he preferred a direct conversation with Modi rather than a discussion involving lengthy speeches. Gandhi proposed that both leaders sit across a table and openly question each other, with each side getting an opportunity to present allegations and respond to them.

The Congress leader also said he would have no objection if Adani Group chairman Gautam Adani or Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat were appointed to judge the proposed debate. Expressing confidence in his ability to challenge the prime minister, Gandhi asserted that Modi would not remain in the top constitutional post following such a direct exchange.

This is not the first time Gandhi has called for an open debate with Modi. On earlier occasions, he had also challenged the prime minister to face him publicly, claiming that he could establish his allegations against Modi within minutes. The BJP, however, has repeatedly dismissed Gandhi's challenge. Leaders of the ruling party have accused the Congress leader of avoiding meaningful discussions in Parliament while demanding a separate debate with the prime minister.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has questioned Gandhi's insistence on choosing an alternative venue, pointing out that Parliament already provides a platform for discussions between the government and the Opposition. She also urged him to demonstrate greater seriousness and responsibility in his capacity as Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from PTI.