Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju sharply criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday, urging him to take responsibility for his party’s recurring electoral setbacks instead of casting aspersions on India’s democratic institutions. The remarks followed Gandhi’s claims on Thursday that Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar was shielding those involved in “vote theft” by systematically removing Congress voters from electoral rolls in Karnataka.

The Election Commission swiftly rejected Gandhi’s allegations as “incorrect and baseless,” emphasizing that voter deletions adhere to a transparent and legally mandated process. Speaking on the sidelines of an FICCI FLO event in New Delhi, Rijiju challenged Gandhi’s approach, stating, “If you lose elections repeatedly, you should acknowledge your weaknesses and accept the failure of your leadership. But instead, you start blaming institutions. Is that the right way?”

Rijiju accused the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha of deflecting from his political shortcomings by targeting institutions like the Election Commission. He further alleged that Gandhi’s rhetoric mirrors “anti-India propaganda” often amplified by adversarial groups. “Whatever narratives Pakistan creates, the same narratives are propagated by Rahul Gandhi and his company here in India,” Rijiju claimed, pointing to a pattern of statements exploited by anti-India elements.

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Addressing the broader functioning of Parliament, Rijiju highlighted the challenges posed by frequent disruptions, which he described as intrinsic to a vibrant democracy but detrimental when excessive. “Protest is the opposition’s right, but it should not overshadow serious lawmaking,” he said, noting that landmark bills on online gaming, constitutional officeholder accountability, and sports governance were passed without debate due to persistent adjournments. He expressed concern over the impact on public perception, stating, “Students and visitors come to watch parliamentary proceedings with excitement but leave disappointed when the House is adjourned within minutes.”

Rijiju’s remarks underscore rising tensions between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress, with the minister calling for constructive engagement in Parliament to strengthen India’s democratic framework. As the controversy unfolds, the focus remains on ensuring accountability and preserving the integrity of electoral processes.

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