Himanta Biswa Sarma Responds to Rahul Gandhi's Debate Challenge

Sarma's Response to Gandhi's Challenge

Guwahati, Nov 4: On Wednesday, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma countered Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's recent challenge to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for an open debate. Sarma suggested that Gandhi should address issues within Parliament instead of rallying people on the streets.

Sarma questioned the rationale behind Gandhi's call for a public debate, emphasizing that Parliament has a Speaker to oversee discussions and urged the Opposition to allow the House to operate without interruptions.

“As an Opposition leader, where do you think a debate should occur, on the streets or in Parliament?” Sarma asked.

He also criticized Gandhi's focus on foreign relations and the alleged foreign backing of Modi's political success, suggesting that a parliamentary debate could encompass various topics, including the Bofors scandal and the Bhopal gas tragedy.

“Please ensure there are no disruptions in Parliament; initiate the debate, and the Prime Minister will respond, covering a wide array of issues,” Sarma stated.

Accusing Gandhi of favoring street protests over parliamentary dialogue, Sarma referenced political situations in neighboring countries to challenge Gandhi's methods.

“Why do you want to incite people to protest? This is not Bangladesh or Nepal,” he remarked.

Sarma further accused Gandhi of applying inconsistent standards to electoral results, questioning the integrity of the electoral process.

He pointed out that while Gandhi doubts the legitimacy of BJP victories, he accepts Congress wins without hesitation. “If Modi wins in Varanasi, it’s due to faulty EVMs; but when you win in Rai Bareli, it’s flawless,” Sarma noted.

He encouraged Gandhi to adopt a less confrontational approach and allow Parliament to function smoothly.

“You can’t remain an angry young man forever. If you aspire to be a good politician, here’s some unsolicited advice - engage in a peaceful debate in Parliament this time,” Sarma advised, stressing that citizens should be able to follow the proceedings without chaos.

This exchange came after Gandhi's Diwali message to Modi, where he reiterated his challenge for an open debate, leaving the venue choice to the Prime Minister.

“Twenty-four hours have passed, Modi ji. I challenged you. You claim the opposition is anti-national. Choose any stage, any venue, and debate me,” Gandhi stated.

Gandhi initially made this challenge on Monday, accusing Modi of depending on foreign assistance to gain and maintain power.

“Mr. Modi, stop deceiving this nation. You became PM with foreign help and continue to be PM because of it,” Gandhi asserted, urging a debate on these allegations.

Earlier on Wednesday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah also invited Gandhi to join a parliamentary debate, asserting that the Modi government is ready to discuss all matters, including the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.

“Let Parliament function. We are prepared to hold a special session to discuss SIR. If you have the courage, come and engage in a discussion before the people of this country,” Shah stated during an event in Kayabandha, Nava Raipur.

This exchange has intensified the political clash surrounding Parliament's operations, the revision of electoral rolls, and Gandhi's claims of foreign influence, with both parties demanding a debate on their own terms.