Rahul Gandhi Accepts Invite For Debate With Modi ‘If & When PM Agrees’

New Delhi: Rahul Gandhi is ready for a public debate with Narendra Modi, ‘if and when the Prime Minister agrees.’

Formally replying to the invitation sent by former judges Madan B Lokur, Ajit P Shah and veteran journalist N Ram, the Congress leader said that he looked forward to a ‘productive and historic debate’.

“Please do let us know if and when the Prime Minister agrees to participate following which we can discuss the details and format of the debate,” Rahul wrote.

However, he added that If such a debate does materialise, either he or Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge will participate.

“I have discussed your invitation with the Congress president, Shri Mallikarjun Kharge Ji. We agree that such a debate will help understand our respective vision and enable them to make an informed choice. It is also critical to put to rest any unsubstantiated allegations attributed to our respective parties. As the principal parties fighting the election, the public deserves to hear from their leaders directly,” Rahul wrote.

A day earlier, Rahul said in Lucknow that he was ready but knew that Modi would not debate with him.

The two former judges and journalist on Thursday invited Modi and Rahul to an open debate where they would answer each others’ allegations.

Modi hasn’t yet spoken about a possible public debate.