'Proves How Undemocratic Congress Is': Smriti Irani Reacts To Ashok Gehlot's 'Ban BJP' Remark

Last Updated:June 17, 2026, 20:52 IST

Smriti Irani also said it was the opposition's responsibility to raise issues and seek accountability from the government, but not to create confusion or damage India's image.

Former Union minister Smriti Irani on Wednesday sharply criticised Congress leader Ashok Gehlot’s remark that if former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi were alive today, she would have banned the BJP.

Speaking at the News18 India Amrit Bharat Samman 2026 event in New Delhi, Irani said Gehlot’s statement exposed what she described as the Congress party’s “undemocratic" mindset.

“If they have power, they should contest elections and people will give their verdict. Don’t become so arrogant that you start saying you will ban a political party when you come to power," Irani said.

“Through such statements, they are telling people that if they get power, they will kill democracy," she added.

Opposition Should Raise Issues, Not Tarnish India’s Image: Irani

BJP leader Irani also took aim at the opposition’s approach to politics, saying it was the opposition’s responsibility to raise issues and seek accountability from the government, but not to create confusion or damage India’s image.

“The opposition’s work is to raise issues. The Prime Minister has said that in a healthy democracy, there must be a responsible opposition. The government has a responsibility to answer every issue raised, and the opposition has the right to seek those answers. Nobody is denying that," she said.

“The problem arises when issues are raised not out of responsibility, but to tarnish the country’s image and create confusion among people," she added.

In an apparent swipe at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Irani said, “I would say that he continues to take responsibility for the opposition and may continue to do so for the rest of his life."

What Ashok Gehlot Said

The remarks came in response to comments made by former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, who called for strengthening the INDIA bloc and publicly backing Rahul Gandhi as its leader.

Gehlot also alleged that the BJP was weakening the country by pursuing divisive politics and targeting Muslims to reinforce its Hindutva credentials.

“If a leader like Indira Gandhi were alive today, she would have banned a party like the BJP," Gehlot said.

About the Author

Saurabh VermaSenior Sub-editor

Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Chief Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19

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