‘Act of treason’: Rahul Gandhi renews ‘vote chori’ charge after Express report

Congress leader and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi reached out to former MLA Rahul Bondre, urging him not to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Mr. Bondre, who represented the Chikhli Assembly seat in Buldhana district, had reportedly planned to switch parties. In a conference call with Mr. Gandhi, the former MLA was encouraged to remain loyal to Congress, as he had dedicated a significant portion of his political career to the party. Mr. Gandhi emphasized that losing is essential for victory.

The call was facilitated by Maharashtra Congress chief Harshvardhan Sapkal, who connected Mr. Gandhi with Mr. Bondre. Mr. Bondre shared his decision to join the BJP in a video statement, expressing gratitude for his time with Congress while stating his commitment to the new party. A grand reception was reportedly planned in the presence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to celebrate his move.

However, Mr. Gandhi's intervention successfully dissuaded Mr. Bondre from joining the BJP. The former MLA affirmed his loyalty to Congress, assuring Mr. Gandhi that he would continue to work for the party. He also expressed his willingness to stand by Mr. Gandhi in the fight, calling him "brother." Mr. Gandhi concluded the conversation by expressing his love for Mr. Bondre and urging him not to worry.