NEW DELHI: The Election Commission of India (ECI) issued a notice to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for his comments during an election rally in Rajasthan, where he referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as “Panauti” (bad omen) and “Jebkatra (pickpocket).” The BJP had formally approached the ECI on November 22, urging action against the Wayanad MP for his choice of words against the Prime Minister.
During the rally in Baytoo, Balotra, Rajasthan, Mr. Gandhi, echoing sentiments from the crowd, stated, “PM means Panauti Modi” and went on to comment on the Prime Minister’s presence at the Ahmedabad stadium during the World Cup final between India and Australia. He insinuated that the Prime Minister’s attendance brought bad luck to the Indian side, saying, “Acha bhala hamare ladke match (World Cup) jeet jaate,” suggesting a correlation between the Prime Minister’s presence and the team’s loss.
The BJP criticised Grand old party leader – Mr. Gandhi’s remarks on November 21, calling them “shameful and disgraceful.” They specifically objected to his insinuation that Prime Minister Modi had brought ill luck to India’s cricket team.
In his address, Mr. Gandhi further alleged that the Prime Minister diverts public attention while industrialist Adani takes advantage by picking their pockets. Additionally, he accused Mr. Modi of favoring big industrialists by waiving their loans and providing them with undue advantages.