Varun Gandhi, BJP MP, has declined an invitation to participate in a debate organized by Oxford University. The debate was titled ‘This House Believes Modi’s India Is On The Right Path’ and was focused on discussing India’s current political direction under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
In his response, Varun Gandhi stated that he did not believe the chosen topic offered much scope for debate or dispute.
The declining of the invitation comes amid the BJP’s mounting attack on Rahul Gandhi, Varun’s cousin, over his comments on Indian democracy at Cambridge University.
The invitation from Oxford, Varun Gandhi’s alma mater, highlighted the importance of discussing whether the BJP’s direction under Modi has been more polarizing than unifying, and who or what represents the right path for India’s future.
“I am pleased to extend an invitation for Mr Gandhi to speak in an upcoming debate of ours. The motion is – This House Believes Modi’s India Is On The Right Path,” reads the invite.
Against the backdrop of ever-strong popularity among voters, it is imperative to discuss whether the BJP’s direction under Modi has been more polarising than unifying. The question then becomes: what (or who) is the right path for India as it forges ahead into the future?” it added.
Varun Gandhi’s response argued that India has been on the right path for development and inclusiveness, which has been laid out by governments of different political affiliations over the past 70 years since Independence.
The elected representative expressed that it was his responsibility to examine and assess policy initiatives and provide feedback through various forums, including Parliament.
“However, such comments must be offered within India to Indian policymakers. I see no merit or integrity in vocalising internal challenges in an international forum,” he added.