Sitharaman Challenges Rahul Gandhi to Debate in Parliament Instead of on Social Media

Responding to Gandhi's call for a public debate, Sitharaman said Parliament was already the appropriate forum for such an exchange, particularly given his position as Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha.

In a post on X, she pointed out that Union Home Minister Amit Shah had recently proposed a special session of Parliament to discuss the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and the functioning of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).

Sitharaman questioned why Gandhi did not demonstrate the same eagerness for a parliamentary discussion that he showed when issuing challenges online.

Sitharaman Accuses Opposition of Walking Out During Debates

The Finance Minister accused Gandhi and other INDIA bloc members of repeatedly walking out of Parliament when the government attempted to respond to their allegations.

She argued that demanding answers also required the Opposition to remain present and hear the government's response. Sitharaman further criticised disruptions that have affected parliamentary proceedings, questioning why the Opposition demanded debates while allegedly preventing the House from functioning.

She also criticised a recent mock Parliament exercise organised by the Congress at the party president's residence, describing it as more of a mockery of Parliament than a meaningful simulation of parliamentary proceedings.

According to Sitharaman, the Opposition should show the same commitment to the functioning of the actual Parliament as it does to political exercises conducted outside the House.

Calls for Evidence-Based Debate

Sitharaman urged Gandhi to support his allegations with specific facts and evidence instead of making broad accusations against the government.

She called on the Congress leader to participate in parliamentary discussions, face scrutiny and remain present to hear responses from the government.

The Finance Minister said political leaders who repeatedly invoke democracy and the Constitution must also demonstrate respect for the institutions through which democratic debate takes place.