New Delhi, Jan 3 (NationPress) While Rahul Gandhi, the Lok Sabha Leader of the Opposition (LoP), embarks on a journey to Vietnam, the BJP and JD(U) have unleashed a fierce critique, accusing him of abandoning his political duties in favor of becoming the “leader of partying and tourism.”

BJP National Spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla expressed his discontent over Gandhi's frequent international trips, questioning his dedication to his political role. “Rahul Gandhi isn’t fulfilling his responsibilities as the Leader of the Opposition; he’s more focused on leisure and tourism. While most remain committed to their work, Prime Minister Modi has consistently been in work mode, even during his time as Chief Minister. In stark contrast, Rahul Gandhi seems to be perpetually on vacation,” he stated.

Poonawalla noted that Gandhi had previously taken a trip to Berlin during a Parliament session and is now off on another international excursion. “Typically, an average person takes vacations infrequently, yet Rahul Gandhi only returns to India between his travels. He must clarify what he intends to achieve in places like Vietnam and Bangkok. Is he meeting influential figures or merely indulging in personal enjoyment? It’s clear he lacks seriousness about politics and operates as a part-time leader, prompting even his allies to doubt his leadership,” he added.

BJP MLA Jitendra Gothwal echoed these sentiments, pointing out that it has become a recurring theme for Gandhi to be abroad during critical national discussions. “When significant national matters arise or meetings where he should assert his role as Leader of the Opposition occur, he opts for leisure trips instead,” Gothwal remarked.

BJP Bihar President Sanjay Saraogi raised concerns about Gandhi's commitment to the nation: “How often does he stay in India? Does he genuinely care for the country? He briefly participated in the Bihar elections, conducted roadshows, and then vanished abroad again. His pattern of foreign travel is alarming,” he commented.

In a similar vein, BJP MP Yogendra Chandolia stated, “Rahul Gandhi’s affection appears to be directed more towards foreign lands than his own country. The pressing question is, when will he return to India? He consistently seems to be outside the country.”

Conversely, Bihar Minister Ashok Chaudhary questioned why Gandhi's travels have become a subject of political contention. “When someone travels, why should it be a political matter? Thousands vacation daily; Rahul Gandhi is just one among them. There’s no need for unwarranted reactions,” he suggested.

JD(U) National Spokesperson Rajeev Ranjan Prasad also criticized Gandhi, remarking that his absences have become a norm. “No one should be surprised by this. The real news would be if Rahul Gandhi were actually in India. He is rarely present. His party had issued a whip for his attendance during the previous Parliament session, yet he opted to be abroad instead,” Prasad stated.

He further remarked that Gandhi is currently on yet another personal excursion, likely indulging in sightseeing. “Upon his return, he will likely question election management in India. He continuously travels and is currently in Vietnam. No one can predict how many more trips he will undertake,” Prasad concluded.

Meanwhile, SP spokesperson Ashutosh Verma provided an alternative perspective, suggesting that Gandhi is striving to enhance his global exposure. “Rahul Gandhi aspires to achieve even a fraction of what the Prime Minister has accomplished through international visits. While the Prime Minister has achieved significant milestones, Gandhi’s endeavors, though present, lack substantial impact,” Verma noted.

He also mentioned that as LoP, Gandhi at least engages with the media and public wherever he travels. “I urge the public to also prompt the Prime Minister to voice national concerns instead of critiquing others. The country has numerous urgent issues needing attention,” Verma concluded.