Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has responded positively to a call from representatives of India's civil society to participate in a public debate with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The invitation, extended by retired Indian justice Madan B Lokur, former chairman of the Law Commission of India Ajit P Saha, and senior journalist N Ram, was received on Saturday.

In a statement shared on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday, Rahul Gandhi expressed his willingness to engage in an open debate with Prime Minister Modi. He indicated that either he or Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge could represent the party in the debate. Gandhi emphasized the importance of such dialogues in fostering transparency and understanding among political parties, ultimately benefiting India's democracy.

Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge echoed Gandhi's sentiments, expressing support for initiatives that promote dialogue and exchange of ideas among political leaders.

However, Union Minister for Women and Child Welfare Smriti Irani questioned the merit of Rahul Gandhi's participation in such a debate. Irani suggested that Gandhi lacked the courage to engage with common BJP workers in his own constituency and questioned his suitability for facing Prime Minister Modi in a debate.

The willingness of Rahul Gandhi to engage in a public debate with Prime Minister Modi underscores the importance of open dialogue in Indian politics, setting the stage for potential future discussions on key issues facing the nation.