Home Minister Amit Shah challenges opposition over vote-theft claims, offers parliamentary debate
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Union Home Minister Amit Shah likened opposition leaders' allegations of electoral irregularities to blaming a cricket umpire and invited them to discuss the issue in a special parliamentary session.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah used a cricket analogy on Friday to respond to allegations of "vote chori" raised by opposition leaders Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav. Speaking at a BJP state working committee meeting in Lucknow, Shah said the leaders were "blaming the umpire after losing a match" and challenged them to bring the matter before Parliament, adding that the government was prepared to convene a special session for the discussion.
"Rahul and Akhilesh Yadav, instead of practising harder after losing a match, start blaming the umpire. I challenge them – the BJP is ready to discuss these allegations in Parliament. Come forward, and let us convene a special session," Shah said.
Shah noted that the opposition had previously called for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over the same issue. He suggested that the Congress leader might avoid a parliamentary debate, describing it as a desire for "drama on the streets."
The remarks came amid speculation that the government could call a special session to consider constitutional amendments related to delimitation and women's reservation in Parliament. The recent monsoon session concluded on August 13 and was adjourned sine die, with the usual prorogation yet to occur.
Shah also expressed confidence that the BJP would secure a third consecutive term in the upcoming Uttar Pradesh elections, invoking historical and mythological references to emphasize party stability. He warned the Samajwadi Party that it would not form the state government for the next three decades.