The letter further suggested, that in case of non-availability of either of the leaders, they could nominate a representative.
Invitation to Modi and Rahul Gandhi for public debate on Lok Sabha polls
As three of the seven phases of the Lok Sabha elections are completed, former Supreme Court Judge Madan B Lokur, former Delhi High Court Judge AP Shah, and former editor-in-chief of The Hindu N Ram invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former Congress president Rahul Gandhi for a public debate.
“We approach you with a proposal that we believe is non-partisan and in the larger interest of every citizen,” read the letter addressed to both leaders.
Emphasising the tendency of the digital world to “misinform, misrepresent, and manipulate”, the missive noted that it is essential for the citizens of India to hear directly from the leaders on a non-partisan and non-commercial platform, and understand all aspects of the debate, to help them make an informed decision to exercise their vote.
The invitation further read: “We are of the view that this would help to strengthen our democratic process immensely. This bears more relevance as we are the world’s largest democracy, and the entire world is watching our elections keenly.”
It further noted that while both parties raised pertinent questions related to the core of constitutional democracy, there have not been meaningful responses.
Former SC judge Madan B Lokur, Former Delhi HC judge AP Shah & Journalist N Ram invites Prime Minister Narendra Modi & Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for a public debate so that public will have views from both sides @narendramodi @RahulGandhi #SupremeCourt pic.twitter.com/Ygj9H18Y6y
— Bar and Bench (@barandbench) May 9, 2024
Among the many issues, the invitation speaks of the issue of social justice, especially the stand on reservations of both parties.
It further notes that the prime minister has publicly challenged the Congress on reservations, Article 370 and wealth redistribution.
Meanwhile, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has questioned the prime minister on “The possible mutilation of the Constitution, Electoral Bond scheme and the government’s response to China.”
“Both sides have asked each other questions about their respective Manifestos, as well as their stand on the constitutionally protected scheme of social justice,” the letter read.
The letter reiterated the need for responses and not just questions, “It would be ideal if the public heard not just the questions of each side, but also the responses.”
Calling the debate a great precedent, the letter said it would not just educate the public, but also project the true image of a healthy and vibrant democracy.
The letter further suggested, that in case of non-availability of either of the leaders, they could nominate a representative.
It further said that the “venue, duration, moderators, and format of the debate could be on the terms agreeable to both sides.”
(Edited by Sumavarsha Kandula)
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