JAMMU: Senior BJP leader and former Health Minister Bali Bhagat on Tuesday launched a scathing attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over allegations related to dual citizenship, terming the issue as “extremely serious” and a direct affront to the spirit of the Indian Constitution.
In a strongly worded statement, Bali Bhagat said that the people of India have the right to know the truth, and any ambiguity on such a critical matter raises serious questions about accountability and transparency in public life.
He asserted that “any individual who is associated with voting rights or citizenship in more than one country is the real ‘vote chor’,” adding that such actions, if proven, would amount to betrayal of the trust reposed by the citizens of India.
Bali Bhagat further criticized the Congress party for what he described as its continued silence and evasive stance on the matter. He said that instead of providing clear answers, Congress leaders have been attempting to divert attention and mislead the public.
“Congress must come clean. The nation deserves clarity, not confusion. Issues related to citizenship are not mere technicalities—they strike at the very core of national integrity and sovereignty,” he said.
He also emphasized that Indian law does not permit dual citizenship, and anyone holding public office or participating in the democratic process must adhere strictly to the constitutional provisions.
Taking a broader swipe at the Congress party, Bali Bhagat alleged that the party has a history of disregarding institutional norms and accountability, and this issue further exposes what he termed as its “double standards.”
He urged the concerned authorities to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into the matter and ensure that the truth is brought before the people of the country.
“India’s democracy is built on trust and rule of law. No individual, no matter how powerful, can be above it,” Bali Bhagat said.
The remarks have added fresh political heat to the ongoing debate, with the issue once again triggering sharp exchanges between the BJP and the Congress.
