New Delhi: In an unprecedented turn of events, a fiery verbal battle that unfolded in the studios of India Today's news channel between BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla and anchors Rajdeep Sardesai and Preeti Chowdhry has spilt over onto social media, causing a stir in political circles and among media enthusiasts.
The incident occurred during a heated debate on the India Today news channel, where Shehzad Poonawalla found himself embroiled in a bitter exchange with anchor Preeti Chowdhry. Tensions flared as the debate grew increasingly acrimonious, with both sides exchanging barbs and accusations.
It was during this intense exchange that Preeti Chowdhry, one of the show's anchors, made a sharp comment directed at Poonawalla, suggesting that he was seeking his "2 minutes of fame." This remark seemed to ignite an already heated situation, prompting an even more intense back-and-forth between the anchor and the BJP spokesperson.
Shehzad Poonawalla retaliated by asserting that he did not require the platform of Preeti's show to gain fame, referring to the program as a "very small show." The verbal clash continued, and the debate ended on a tense note.
Shehzad Poonawalla took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to share his perspective on the matter. In a lengthy post, he detailed his grievances, claiming that he was not allowed to make his closing remarks and was wrongfully denied a fair opportunity to express his views during the debate. Poonawalla's post included a video of the contentious debate, allowing his followers to witness the heated exchange.
In his Twitter post, Poonawalla wrote, "Here’s what happened... 1) Despite me requesting @sardesairajdeep to let me complete - which he did not do last evening - he again interrupts me within 20 seconds of my first remarks after his long opening - literally within 20 seconds!! ((It was not a fact check)) 2) I call out Rajdeep jovially, without any anger, for his constant interruptions and wonder why he needs to peddle a congress narrative rather than hear me fully."
Preeti Chowdhry also took to X to defend her stance and apologize to the viewers for the debate turning into what she referred to as a "shouting match." She expressed her commitment to standing up against bullies and maintaining a more respectful tone in future debates.
"A heartfelt apology to the viewers of - To The Point - sadly today we became what we despise... a shouting match! For those few who do watch our ‘very small show’ regularly :) you do know this is not how I conduct my debates - we live... we learn but I also promise always to stand up and stare down a bully! .. cause that’s the only way I know :)"