Dubbing Union minister Smriti Irani a "serial liar", the Congress alleged that she has "falsified records" of her educational qualifications and submitted contradictory affidavits to the Election Commission for which she should be disqualified. Congress spokesperson Priyanka Chaturvedi also accused Irani of misusing her influence and power as a Union minister. Hitting back at Chaturvedi, Irani said that some Congress’ sycophants were trying to damage her reputation because she was challenging ‘naamdar’ in Amethi.