Congress has reignited the political battle over voter enrolment by invoking Rajiv Gandhi’s 1988 electoral reform and drawing a sharp contrast with Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the registration of young voters. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh recalled that Parliament amended Article 326 in December 1988, reducing the minimum voting age from 21 to 18, and described the move as one that empowered India’s youth. The fresh attack comes amid the controversy surrounding the revision of electoral rolls and the enrolment of newly eligible 18-year-old voters. Ramesh has described the dispute as a “tale of two PMs”, contrasting Rajiv Gandhi’s decision to lower the voting age with what Congress alleges is an attempt to prevent newly eligible voters from entering the electoral rolls. Congress has also escalated its broader criticism of the Election Commission over the ongoing Special Intensive Revision, while accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah of a “diabolical design” against voters.

Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge paid floral tribute to former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on his 34th death anniversary at Veer Bhumi, Delhi. Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, and Congress National President Kharge offered heartfelt respects to the late leader, remembering his contributions to the nation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid his tribute, honouring the memory of Rajiv Gandhi on this solemn day. Watch video.