CNN Central News & Networks / ITDC India ePress / ITDC News /Agencies/ Delhi: Amit Shah challenges Rahul, Akhilesh to debate ‘vote theft’ in Parliament
New Delhi. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has issued an open challenge to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav over alleged irregularities in the voter list and allegations of “vote theft”. He said the Bharatiya Janata Party is ready for a discussion on these allegations in Parliament and, if needed, a special session can also be called. Shah asked the opposition leaders to place all their allegations against the Election Commission in Parliament and discuss them.
Addressing a meeting of the Uttar Pradesh BJP working committee in Lucknow on Friday, Shah said the opposition was making baseless allegations against the Election Commission. According to him, instead of holding a discussion in Parliament, the opposition wants to stage protests and create a ruckus on the streets. Targeting Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav, he said both leaders should answer in Parliament on this issue.
Referring to election results, the Home Minister accused the opposition of questioning the electoral process after defeat. Citing the example of sports, he said that after losing a match, one should focus on one’s preparation instead of accusing the umpire of dishonesty. Shah claimed the BJP has nothing to hide.
On the other hand, opposition parties have raised questions over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) and the process of changes in the voter list. The opposition alleges that this process could affect voters’ names and impact electoral fairness. The opposition has also announced a protest programme against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and a major rally at Delhi’s Ramlila Maidan on November 1.
The political confrontation between the ruling side and the opposition has intensified over this issue. It remains to be seen how the opposition parties respond to the offer of a special session of Parliament and the challenge to debate.
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