Madhya Pradesh BJP president Hemant Khandelwal launched a scathing attack on Congress Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, branding his allegations of “vote theft” in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections as “irresponsible” and baseless. Speaking to reporters after a courtesy visit by Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, Khandelwal urged the Congress to “worry about” their leader’s mental state, suggesting his claims reflect a disconnect from reality that demands internal scrutiny within the party.

Khandelwal dismissed Gandhi's claims as “disappointing” and lacking evidence, arguing they undermine the credibility of a high-ranking opposition leader. “Such irresponsible statements from someone in such an important position are a matter of national concern,” said the Betul MLA. In a pointed jab, he added, “If someone in the family is mentally unwell, the entire family should be worried. Congress needs to talk to Rahul Gandhi about why he’s making such baseless claims.”

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The BJP’s rebuttal aligns with broader party pushback, with Union Ministers Kiren Rijiju and Dharmendra Pradhan accusing Gandhi of insulting the electorate’s mandate. The ECI, meanwhile, has challenged Gandhi to submit a signed declaration under electoral rules to substantiate his allegations or issue a public apology. Sources within the ECI called his claims “absurd,” noting that voter roll revisions involve transparent processes with political party oversight.

Congress leaders, including Sonia Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, have doubled down, alleging similar manipulations in Maharashtra, Haryana, and Bihar. However, Khandelwal’s remarks reflect growing BJP confidence in framing Gandhi’s accusations as a desperate bid to deflect from Congress’s electoral setbacks. As the controversy escalates, the ECI’s demand for evidence puts Gandhi at a crossroads, with potential legal and political ramifications looming.

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