Gehlot Calls Allahabad HC's Ruling on Gandhi's Citizenship 'Unfortunate' and 'Astonishing'
Synopsis
In a robust response, former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot critiques the Allahabad High Court's recent ruling on Rahul Gandhi's alleged British citizenship, calling it 'astonishing' and unnecessary. His support for Gandhi underscores the legacy of the Nehru-Gandhi family amid ongoing political tensions.
Key Takeaways
Ashok Gehlot criticizes the Allahabad HC's ruling.
The ruling involves allegations against Rahul Gandhi regarding British citizenship.
Gehlot highlights historical sacrifices by the Nehru-Gandhi family.
The Supreme Court had previously dismissed similar petitions.
The Allahabad HC's directive allows for a potential investigation by a central agency.
Jaipur, April 18 (NationPress) Former Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Ashok Gehlot, expressed strong disapproval on Saturday regarding the recent ruling of the Allahabad High Court, which mandated an FIR and investigation into claims concerning Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, regarding his supposed British citizenship.
In a pointed statement, Gehlot characterized the court's directive as “astonishing” and suggested it imposes an undue burden on the executive branch.
He pointed out that similar petitions had previously been dismissed by various courts, including the Supreme Court in 2019 and the Allahabad High Court in July 2025. He found the latest ruling perplexing, given these earlier judicial decisions.
Gehlot stated, “The order for a CBI investigation or FIR based on unfounded allegations of British citizenship against Rahul Gandhi is astonishing and represents the judiciary placing an unnecessary load on the executive.”
He further stressed that previous judicial bodies had already dealt with similar petitions, making the current order unexpected.
In a show of support for LoP Gandhi, Gehlot referenced the historical significance of the Nehru-Gandhi family. He remarked, “Rahul Gandhi’s father and grandmother made the ultimate sacrifice to preserve the unity and integrity of this nation.”
He also noted that his great-grandfather spent almost ten years imprisoned during the freedom struggle and dedicated his entire fortune to the fight against British colonialism. Gehlot highlighted Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Yatra, asserting that the Congress leader’s nationwide march aimed to alleviate social tensions and promote love, harmony, and brotherhood throughout the country.
“Proceedings of this nature against an individual of such significance are profoundly unfortunate,” he added.
This statement follows the Allahabad High Court's Lucknow Bench ruling, which mandated the registration of an FIR concerning allegations of dual citizenship and permitted the investigation to be carried out by either the state government or a central agency.
The court ordered that an FIR be lodged and an investigation be initiated concerning a BJP worker's petition about Gandhi's alleged British Citizenship. The HC remarked that the issue warranted investigation, which could be undertaken by the UP government or referred to a central agency.
Point of View
The statement made by Ashok Gehlot highlights significant political tensions and concerns regarding judicial overreach. The ruling by the Allahabad High Court raises questions about the implications for political figures and the broader legal landscape in India.
NationPress
9 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Ashok Gehlot say about the Allahabad High Court ruling?
Ashok Gehlot described the court's order as 'astonishing' and expressed that it places an undue burden on the executive machinery.
What historical context did Gehlot provide in support of Rahul Gandhi?
Gehlot referenced the sacrifices made by Gandhi's family, including his father and grandmother, to maintain the unity of the nation.
What was the Allahabad High Court's directive regarding the FIR?
The court directed an FIR to be registered concerning allegations of dual citizenship against Rahul Gandhi, allowing an investigation by either the state government or a central agency.
