Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh) [India], April 21: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav strongly criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for his recent comments about the Election Commission of India during an address to the Indian diaspora in Boston, US, accusing him of repeatedly disrespecting the nation on foreign soil.
“It has been the record of Rahul Gandhi that he spoils the honour of the nation abroad. I prayed to Baba Mahakal to show him wisdom this time, but it seems it’s become his characteristic,” CM Yadav said during a media interaction.
“Do Politics at Home, Not Abroad,” CM Yadav Tells Rahul
The Chief Minister emphasized that as a Member of Parliament, Gandhi has access to platforms like Parliament and party forums to raise issues.
“If you want to do politics, do it here. You are a Member of Parliament—address your concerns in the House. No responsible leader in the world maligns their own country abroad. This has become Congress’s character,” he added, urging the party to “control their leader.”
Rahul Gandhi’s Claims in Boston
Speaking at a diaspora event in Boston, Rahul Gandhi alleged that the Election Commission was “compromised” and cited irregularities during the Maharashtra elections, claiming an implausible 65 lakh new votes were added in just two hours.
“More people voted in Maharashtra than the number of people living there. At 5:30 p.m., we got a figure, and by 7:30 p.m., 65 lakh more votes were added. This is physically impossible,” Gandhi said.
His remarks sparked backlash across political circles, with critics calling the claims exaggerated and misleading.
CM Yadav Reiterates Commitment to OBC Reservation
Shifting focus to domestic issues, CM Yadav reaffirmed his government’s support for 27% reservation for OBCs in Madhya Pradesh.
“We’ve studied the OBC Commission report from the previous Shivraj Singh Chouhan government, and we’ll invite stakeholders, including those who filed writ petitions, for discussions,” Yadav said.
“Under PM Modi’s leadership, we are working in everyone’s interest and are hopeful of positive outcomes.”
Broader Context
This controversy adds to an ongoing political narrative around free speech abroad, electoral integrity, and OBC representation—all significant in the lead-up to national elections. CM Yadav’s response reflects BJP’s effort to frame Rahul Gandhi as irresponsible on international platforms, while also consolidating support among OBC voters by reaffirming caste-based reservation policies.