Ashok Gehlot Mocks NDA’s ‘26-Second’ Press Meet, Calls It a ‘Dangerous Sign for Democracy

By A Staff Reporter

Patna, Bihar: Congress observer for the Bihar Assembly elections and senior leader Ashok Gehlot on Friday ridiculed the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) for what he termed as a “26-second press conference” during the release of its joint poll manifesto, calling it a worrying sign for democracy.

“JP Nadda, CM Nitish Kumar and other leaders came for just 26 seconds. Media people told me that this is the first time they have seen a 26-second press conference,” Gehlot said while addressing reporters in Patna. “They got scared and ran away… This is a dangerous sign for democracy.”

The veteran Congress leader argued that the release of a manifesto is a crucial democratic exercise, providing parties an opportunity to explain their promises and face public questions. “The release of the manifesto is an important event in the elections. Why are you so afraid of the media and questions?” he asked.

Accusing the NDA of evading accountability, Gehlot said the alliance’s conduct reflected a lack of faith in democratic principles. “They do not believe in democracy,” he added, stressing that leaders must engage openly with the public and media instead of avoiding scrutiny during elections.