Is Rahul Gandhi the First LoP to Criticize India During Foreign Trips?
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Synopsis
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has called out Rahul Gandhi for his negative remarks about India while abroad. He emphasizes the importance of representing the nation responsibly and contrasts Gandhi's actions with past leaders. This controversy raises questions about the impact of such statements on India's global image.
Key Takeaways
- Kiren Rijiju condemns Rahul Gandhi's remarks abroad.
- Gandhi is criticized for damaging India's global reputation.
- Importance of representing India responsibly while overseas.
- Contrast with past leaders who maintained national pride.
- Concerns about misinterpretation of Gandhi's views internationally.
New Delhi, Oct 6 (NationPress) Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju accused the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, of "spreading negativity against the nation" during his foreign trips. He called on Gandhi to stop making disparaging remarks about India while occupying one of the top constitutional positions in the country.
Rijiju's comments followed Gandhi's recent visit to South America, where he criticized the Modi government, stating that the "greatest threat to India today is a systematic assault on its democratic principles".
In an interview with IANS, Rijiju contrasted Gandhi’s behavior with that of previous Leaders of Opposition, both from the Congress and BJP, expressing disappointment over his 'disgraceful' actions abroad.
"Our nation has seen numerous Leaders of Opposition from both the Congress and BJP. The Congress has produced several prominent figures, and we too have had remarkable leaders like L.K. Advani, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Sushma Swaraj, Jaswant Singh, and Arun Jaitley. However, none made such statements while overseas," Rijiju remarked.
He recalled a past instance involving Gandhi's grandmother, former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, who, when asked about government actions against her after losing an election, stated she would not speak about her country while abroad. Rijiju lamented, "Rahul travels to foreign countries and spreads negativity about India. This saddens me."
The Union Minister emphasized that Gandhi, representing the Indian Parliament during his foreign trips, should act with responsibility.
"Rahul Gandhi frequently travels abroad; I don't have a personal issue with that. However, as the Leader of Opposition, his speeches overseas are scrutinized because he represents our Parliament," he said.
Rijiju added, "When our Leader of Opposition speaks negatively about the country, about Indian democracy and the Indian system, it is unacceptable. He claims India cannot assume global leadership; how can he assert that? It is not appropriate."
Highlighting the potential global impact of Gandhi's statements, Rijiju expressed concern that international audiences might mistakenly believe that leaders like Gandhi represent a majority viewpoint in India, stating, "People may start assuming that India is represented by leaders like Rahul Gandhi, despite this being a minority view. Our nation understands that he does not reflect the views of the broader populace, but how would people in Colombia be aware of that? Rahul needs to speak more sensibly. I have significant concerns regarding his comments."
Point of View
It's crucial to emphasize that while political leaders have the right to express dissent, they must do so with a sense of responsibility, especially on international platforms. The views of one leader should not define the sentiments of an entire nation. Unity and national pride must prevail.
NationPress
06/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Kiren Rijiju accuse Rahul Gandhi of?
Kiren Rijiju accused Rahul Gandhi of 'spreading negativity against the nation' during his foreign visits.
What did Rahul Gandhi say about India's democracy?
Rahul Gandhi stated that the biggest threat to India today is a systematic attack on its democratic foundations.
How did Rijiju compare Gandhi's behavior to past leaders?
Rijiju highlighted that past Leaders of Opposition, from both Congress and BJP, maintained a sense of pride and did not make disparaging remarks about India while abroad.
What is Rijiju's concern regarding Gandhi's remarks?
Rijiju is concerned that Gandhi's statements may lead international audiences to believe that such views represent the majority opinion in India.
How should leaders behave while representing India abroad?
Leaders should communicate responsibly and maintain the dignity of the nation, ensuring their comments reflect national pride.
