New Delhi, November 4, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has challenged Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi to take his demand for a public debate with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Parliament, accusing the Congress leader and the INDIA bloc of repeatedly disrupting proceedings and walking out when the government responds to their allegations.
In a post on X, Sitharaman said Parliament was already the appropriate venue for the debate Gandhi was seeking.
“Rahul ji, you ask the Prime Minister to choose a venue for a debate. There is already one: Parliament, where you happen to be the LoP,” she wrote.
The Finance Minister referred to Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s offer of a special session of Parliament to discuss the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and the functioning of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).
Questioning Gandhi’s commitment to parliamentary debate, Sitharaman alleged that the Congress leader and other Opposition members had walked out on several occasions while the government was responding to their accusations.
“Demanding answers also carries an obligation to hear them,” she said, asking why the Opposition was demanding debate while not allowing Parliament to function.
She also criticised the Congress for organising a “mock Parliament” at the residence of the party president, describing the exercise as more of a “mockery of Parliament” than a meaningful simulation of legislative proceedings.
Sitharaman said leaders who repeatedly speak about protecting democracy and the Constitution must demonstrate respect for the country’s democratic institutions.
She urged Gandhi to raise specific allegations supported by evidence and remain present in the House to hear the government’s response.
“You say, ‘Daro mat.’ Then bring the facts, face the scrutiny and stay to hear the answers. In the House, uphold the standards of debate you demand from others,” she said.
The remarks came amid a political exchange between the BJP and Congress after Gandhi challenged Modi to a public debate over allegations concerning anti-national activities and alleged links with foreign forces.
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