Is Rahul Gandhi Frequenting Foreign Shores During Parliamentary Sessions?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Pralhad Joshi criticizes Rahul Gandhi's frequent absences during Parliament.
- Gandhi's upcoming trip to Germany raises questions about his commitment.
- The term 'Videsh Nayak' highlights concerns over foreign travel during critical sessions.
- Political opponents are vocal about Gandhi's perceived neglect of duties.
- The government defends its stance on foreign dignitary meetings.
New Delhi, Dec 10 (NationPress) Union Minister Pralhad Joshi on Wednesday took aim at Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, for his frequent travels abroad, asserting that he tends to be overseas whenever Parliament convenes.
"Gandhi often claims he hasn't had the opportunity to speak in Parliament. However, the reality is that he is regularly absent, labeling him as a part-time, non-serious political leader," the Union Minister remarked.
"Let him go. He is mostly abroad whenever Parliament is in session. Later, he claims he doesn’t get a chance to speak, but the truth is, he isn't even here... He is a part-time, non-serious political leader," he added.
In contrast, NCP(SP) MLA Rohit Pawar provided a more tempered, yet still critical, viewpoint: "Whenever Rahul Gandhi travels abroad, he engages with universities or speaks with the Indian community there. But what is the purpose of his visit to Germany? I cannot specify. We will find out later what his intentions are..."
Recent media reports indicate that Gandhi is scheduled to visit Germany, where he intends to meet with members of the Indian diaspora and German government officials.
This decision to travel has already sparked significant criticism from opponents within the ruling and allied parties.
A notable BJP leader has referred to Gandhi as a ‘Videsh Nayak’, accusing him of prioritizing foreign tours while Parliament is in session.
As the Winter Session of Parliament continues until December 19, the timing of his trip raises questions regarding Gandhi's dedication to his parliamentary duties.
Previously, Gandhi has expressed concerns about the government allegedly discouraging foreign dignitaries from engaging with him as the Leader of the Opposition.
However, the government counters that the decision regarding meetings with dignitaries rests solely with the visiting delegations, not with Indian authorities, citing recent occasions where Gandhi successfully met with visiting foreign leaders.