New Delhi, Dec 10 (NationPress) CPI(M) MP Amraram stated on Wednesday that it is the obligation of the Leader of Opposition (LoP) to attend Parliament sessions, following reports that Rahul Gandhi is planning a visit to Germany during the current Winter Session.

Media outlets have recently reported that Gandhi is anticipated to travel to Germany, where he intends to engage with members of the Indian diaspora and German government officials. The timing of this trip has ignited a political discourse regarding his responsibilities as LoP while Parliament is in session.

When questioned about the rationale behind Gandhi's overseas trip, CPI(M) MP Amraram remarked to IANS, "Only he might understand why he is departing during the session. It is my belief that the Leader of the Opposition should be present whenever Parliament is convened."

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi also criticized Rahul Gandhi for his international excursions, suggesting he is frequently abroad when Parliament is in session.

Joshi stated, "Gandhi later asserts he didn't have an opportunity to speak in Parliament. However, in reality, he is often missing," labeling him as "a part-time, non-serious political leader."

Furthering his critique, the Union Minister added, "Let him go. He is mostly overseas while 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."

The Winter Session of Parliament is set to continue until December 19, and the timing of Gandhi's proposed trip has raised fresh concerns about his commitment to his parliamentary duties as the Leader of the Opposition.

In contrast, NCP(SCP) Maharashtra MLA Rohit Pawar defended Rahul Gandhi, questioning the controversy surrounding the foreign visit.

Pawar told reporters, "What is the issue with the visit abroad? There are other Opposition MPs in Parliament raising questions; the ruling party should respond. Whenever Rahul Gandhi travels internationally, he engages with universities or interacts with Indians there. However, I can't specify why he has gone to Germany this time. We will find out later why he is there."

Gandhi has expressed concern in the past regarding the government's alleged discouragement of foreign dignitaries from meeting him in his capacity as the Leader of the Opposition.

However, the government has countered that the decisions about meetings with dignitaries rest solely with the visiting delegations and not Indian authorities, noting recent instances where Gandhi did meet with foreign leaders.