Key Facts
Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Tuesday (June 16, 2026) accused Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla of using his office to intimidate students and coaching institutes in Kota ahead of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's scheduled visit. Gehlot claimed that messages were being sent that no one should attend Gandhi's programme, and that those who do would face consequences.
Details of the Allegation
Speaking to journalists, Gehlot said, "A message has been conveyed as if Om Birla is opposed to Mr. Gandhi's visit and no one should attend it. He should clarify his position on why such a situation has arisen and at whose behest did all this happen." Gehlot added that there was enthusiasm among students and Congress workers for the event, where the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha is scheduled to discuss exam paper leaks, unemployment, and youth concerns.
The veteran Congress leader alleged that functionaries linked to the Speaker's office were pressuring coaching institutes, paying guest accommodations, and guesthouse operators to discourage students from attending. "They are being threatened and told to be prepared to face the consequences," he said.
Impact on Democratic Norms
Gehlot described such actions as contrary to democratic norms, stating that a person occupying a constitutional position like the Lok Sabha Speaker should not endorse this approach. "It did not befit the Speaker to create a situation that instils fear in people's minds about the fate of their institutions," he added.
Hoarding Removal and Political Conspiracy
Gehlot also pointed out that the administration was removing hoardings of Gandhi's programme, calling it a "political conspiracy by a jittery Bharatiya Janata Party." He questioned, "First threats to coaching institutes, then pressure on students, and now removing hoarding… Why is the BJP so terrified?"
The former Chief Minister asserted that students' voices would not be silenced by removing hoardings, and a large number of youngsters would join the programme in Kota following the BJP's "act of authoritarianism."
What Readers Should Know
- Rahul Gandhi's visit to Kota is part of his outreach to students on issues like exam paper leaks and unemployment.
- Kota is Om Birla's parliamentary constituency, known for its coaching hubs.
- Gehlot's allegations come amid heightened political tensions between Congress and BJP.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Ashok Gehlot allege about Om Birla?
Gehlot alleged that Om Birla's office is sending messages to coaching institutes and guesthouses in Kota to discourage students from attending Rahul Gandhi's programme, threatening consequences.
Why is Rahul Gandhi visiting Kota?
Rahul Gandhi, as Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, plans to interact with students on issues like exam paper leaks, unemployment, and youth concerns.
What did Gehlot say about hoardings being removed?
Gehlot said the administration removed hoardings of Rahul Gandhi's programme, calling it a political conspiracy by a jittery BJP.
Source: www.thehindu.com