Rahul Gandhi’s chopper delay sparks controversy in Jharkhand

The Congress alleged that the delay in Rahul Gandhi’s chopper departure from Jharkhand reeks of BJP’s intention to deny the party a level playing field in the Assembly election.

In an “urgent memorandum” to the Chief Election Commissioner, the Congress urged immediate intervention to ensure a fair election process. The memorandum, signed by Jairam Ramesh, stated that if such situations prevail, the ruling regime can exploit protocols to restrict opposition leaders’ campaigns.

“According to the approved schedule, Rahul Gandhi’s chopper was to depart from Godda at 1.15 pm but was grounded due to a no-fly zone restriction, allegedly for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s rally near Deoghar. The chopper took off 45 minutes later,” the memorandum said.

“This mistreatment took place on Dharti Aaba Birsa Munda Ji’s Jayanti, when Rahul Ji is in his birthplace Jharkhand to commemorate his contributions towards Adivasi rights. The Modi government is so brazen that it will resort to such petty tactics to stop Rahul Ji, who has for decades spoken for Adivasi empowerment and protecting the Constitution at all costs”, wrote KC Venugopal on X.

The Congress leaders accused BJP of prioritising PM Modi’s event over Rahul Gandhi’s movements. Meanwhile, PM Modi’s aircraft experienced a technical snag at the Deoghar airport, delaying his return to Delhi.

The second phase of Jharkhand Assembly election is scheduled for November 20, with results to be counted on November 23.