LS polls: 2 ex-SC judges, journo invite Modi, Rahul for public debate

New Delhi: As the Lok Sabha polls are going on and three phases are done so far, two former judges of the Supreme Court and a journalist invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for a public debate on Thursday, Scroll reported.

In a letter written by Justices Madan Lokhur and AP Shah, along with the former editor of The Hindu N Ram, said a public debate on a non-partisan and non-commercial platform would greatly benefit the citizens and strengthen the democratic process. It would set a great precedent which would not only educate the public but also project the true image of a healthy and vibrant nation, the letter said.

The letter noted that both Modi and Rahul raised important questions while campaigning for the elections. When the former openly challenged Congress over reservations, Article 370 repealing and wealth redistribution, Congress questioned Modi over the potential for mutilation of the Constitution electoral bond scheme and the Centre’s response to China. Congress party itself had challenged the PM for a public debate.

According to the letter, despite both parties asking each other questions about their respective manifestoes, their stand on the constitutionally protected scheme of social justice, etc., the question has not evoked meaningful responses from either party.

In a digital that carries with it a propensity for misinformation, misrepresentation and manipulation, it is fundamentally important to ensure that the public is well-educated about all aspects of the debate so that they can make an informed choice at the ballots, which is central to the effective exercise of the electoral franchise, the letter said.

The letter also suggested nominating a representative to attend the debate in their place if they are unable to appear in person.