'Will come after you if ...': Rajeev Chandrasekhar's warning to Shashi Tharoor

NEW DELHI: Union minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar, the BJP candidate for Thiruvananthapuram, warned his Congress rival Shashi Tharoor against resorting to personal attacks during the election campaign.

Chandrasekhar accused Tharoor of engaging in "third-rate politics" by spreading falsehoods and instilling fear in the minds of the people.

While acknowledging the importance of free speech under Article 19, Chandrasekhar emphasized that crossing the line into personal attacks on his integrity would not be tolerated. He asserted his determination to take legal action against such attempts, ensuring that consequences are served under the law.

"He (Dr Shashi Tharoor) relies upon this type of third-rate politics, putting fear in people's minds and telling lies. In any case, I have clearly said that everybody is free to do politics. Article 19 protects everybody's free speech. But, if you trespass into lying about my personal integrity, then I will come after you. I will ensure under the law that the consequences will be served on you," he stated.

Earlier in April, Rajeev Chandrasekhar issued a legal notice to sitting MP Shashi Tharoor for levelling cash-for-vote allegations against him. Chandrasekhar, who expressed shock over the allegations made by Tharoor on a television show, demanded that he withdraw his statement and tender an unconditional apology.

The notice further suggested that Tharoor had concocted these allegations to influence voters in Thiruvananthapuram and subvert the process of free and fair elections. Chandrasekhar expressed shock over the allegations made by Tharoor on a television show and demanded that he withdraw his statement and apologize unconditionally.

(With inputs from agencies)