The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday launched a sharp attack on Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi, sarcastically labeling him as the most "foreign travelled" LoP in India's parliamentary history. The party demanded that the Congress clarify the identities of those who frequently invite him abroad, especially when his presence is seldom sought by its own state governments or institutions within the country.
BJP Spokesperson Links Visits to 'Anti-India' Forces
Addressing the media, BJP national spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi connected Gandhi's international travels to a pattern of engaging with elements critical of the Indian government. Trivedi stated that Rahul Gandhi is now en route to Vietnam, following a series of recent trips to nations including Malaysia, Colombia, and Germany.
"Rahul Gandhi is notorious for spewing venom against India during his foreign trips," Trivedi alleged. He further claimed that based on past instances, the Congress leader would surely be hosted by some 'anti-India' figures during his current visit. The BJP's core accusation is that these journeys are strategically used to shape and voice criticism against the Modi administration from foreign soil.
Congress Asked to Clarify Source of Invitations
In a taunting remark, Sudhanshu Trivedi highlighted a perceived lack of demand for Rahul Gandhi's presence domestically. "Even Congress chief ministers or colleges and universities do not really invite the Lok Sabha LoP to their programmes," he said. This observation led to the pointed question: who then are the people persistently requesting him to visit different countries to criticize India?
The BJP spokesperson insisted that the Congress party must provide clarity on this matter. To bolster their criticism, BJP leaders also circulated past photographs of Rahul Gandhi's meetings with US politicians, implying a continuity in his engagements abroad.
Political Repercussions and Ongoing Narrative
This attack forms part of a sustained political narrative where the BJP seeks to portray Rahul Gandhi as being disconnected from domestic issues and aligning with external critics. The emphasis on his travel frequency is aimed at contrasting him with the image of a leader focused on grassroots Indian politics.
The ball is now in the Congress's court to respond to these allegations. The party's rebuttal or clarification will likely shape the next phase of this political skirmish, which revolves around nationalism, political conduct abroad, and the responsibilities of the Leader of the Opposition.
