New Delhi, Feb 3 (PTI) – Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Monday strongly criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for allegedly spreading "lies" in the Lok Sabha, hinting that the treasury benches may seek action against him for "misleading" the House.
During a debate on the Motion of Thanks to the President’s address, Gandhi made controversial remarks, asserting that an INDIA bloc-led government would not have sent its foreign minister to the U.S. to request an invitation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the American president’s "coronation." His statement drew sharp criticism from the BJP, which accused him of resorting to "falsehoods."
The Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha also alleged that PM Modi denied the presence of Chinese forces inside Indian territory, contradicting the Army's stance. Additionally, Gandhi claimed that nearly 70 lakh voters—equivalent to Himachal Pradesh's population—were added to Maharashtra’s electoral rolls between the Lok Sabha and state assembly elections. He demanded that the Election Commission provide detailed data to opposition parties in the state.
Responding to Gandhi’s remarks, Rijiju accused him of lowering the dignity of both his position and the House. "He has made childish comments and is telling lies," Rijiju said.
"We objected to Rahul Gandhi’s statements in the Lok Sabha immediately, and we will do so again before the Speaker tomorrow," the minister told reporters at the Parliament complex.
When asked about possible action against Gandhi, Rijiju outlined two options. "We may either condemn his remarks in the House and demand that he authenticate his statements, or one of our members may serve a notice seeking action against him for misleading the House with incorrect claims," he said.
Rijiju asserted that Gandhi would be unable to substantiate his statements because they were false. "Expunging objectionable and unverified remarks from the records is a standard parliamentary procedure. However, we must remind him that such frivolous acts and language undermine parliamentary standards," he added.
The BJP’s strong reaction signals a potential move to hold Gandhi accountable for his statements, setting the stage for further political confrontation in Parliament.
