Daijiworld Media Network - Nagpur
Nagpur, Apr 21: Union Minister Ramdas Athawale on Monday strongly criticized Congress MP Rahul Gandhi for his recent statements made in Boston, where Gandhi alleged that the Election Commission of India (ECI) was "compromised" and questioned the fairness of the Indian electoral system.
"Whenever Rahul Gandhi travels abroad, he makes such incorrect and baseless statements. It has become a recurring pattern," Athawale told mediapersons.
"To accuse the ECI, particularly concerning the Maharashtra elections, is an insult to the state's citizens. The ECI conducted the elections, and the people cast their votes. Rahul Gandhi must respect the people's mandate," he asserted.
"His 'scam' allegations are without merit. The EVM machines were introduced by the government, and it is wrong to target the ECI in this regard. The ECI had no involvement. The people of Maharashtra have given us a significant victory, and Rahul Gandhi's comments are inappropriate. His remarks undermine the democratic institutions of our country," Athawale added.
He further stated, "This is a direct attack on our nation. Rahul Gandhi’s comments against the ECI are not only inappropriate but also disrespectful."
Addressing the recent controversy surrounding the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, Athawale emphasized the importance of respecting the judiciary while also highlighting the supremacy of Parliament.
"Everyone should respect the judiciary, and its orders must be followed. However, Parliament is the supreme body, responsible for making and implementing laws. It is not the role of the Supreme Court to comment on every law passed by Parliament. While we respect the judiciary, there must be mutual respect between the legislature and the judiciary," he explained.
Last week, the Supreme Court of India raised concerns about certain controversial provisions of the Waqf Act recently passed by Parliament. During the hearings, the Central government assured the Supreme Court that it would not de-notify provisions related to 'Waqf-by-user' or include non-Muslim members in the Waqf Board.