'Is Democracy Thriving in India?' Prithviraj Chavan Justifies Rahul's International Engagements (IANS Interview)
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Synopsis
Prithviraj Chavan defends Rahul Gandhi's foreign travels, asserting their importance in showcasing India's democracy on the global stage. He critiques the Maharashtra government and discusses recent geopolitical tensions involving Bangladesh and Venezuela, emphasizing the need for India to maintain strong international relations.
Key Takeaways
- Rahul Gandhi's international trips are seen as vital for showcasing India's democracy.
- The Maharashtra government is criticized for widespread corruption.
- Relations with Bangladesh are strained due to recent sporting decisions.
- Prithviraj Chavan emphasizes a need for better foreign policy.
- India must navigate complex international relations with prudence.
Mumbai, Jan 4 (NationPress) Prominent Congress figure and former Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Prithviraj Chavan, asserted on Sunday that there should be no concerns regarding Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi's overseas travels, highlighting that the global community is keen to understand India and that the MP is adeptly showcasing the nation's stance on a worldwide platform.
In a conversation with IANS, Chavan also criticized the Mahayuti administration in Maharashtra, labeling it as the "most corrupt government" in the state.
He further commented on Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar's statements concerning corruption allegations, India's ties with Bangladesh, the BCCI requesting Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to exclude a Bangladeshi player, and the US operations in Venezuela.
Here are highlights from the interview:
IANS: Rahul Gandhi is currently on another foreign trip. The BJP has ramped up its 'anti-India' claims against the LoP. What are your thoughts?
Prithviraj Chavan: If international entities are inviting Rahul Gandhi, the LoP, to gain insights on India, there should be no issue with this.
Perhaps Amit Shah is not receiving invitations, and even PM Modi faced challenges in the past with visa approvals. Now as Prime Minister, he is fully capitalizing on his travel opportunities. If he were to cease being Prime Minister, he might find visa approvals elusive once again.
Rahul Gandhi is articulating India's perspective on the global stage; hence, there is nothing inappropriate about it. The world is eager to discern the current state of democracy in India. Thus, if Rahul Gandhi is informing them as the LoP, it should not be a concern.
IANS: Ajit Pawar has defended awarding tickets to candidates with criminal records for civic elections, asserting that he himself has faced allegations regarding a Rs 70,000 crore irrigation scandal, claiming no one is a criminal until proven guilty. What is your view?
Prithviraj Chavan: The three-party alliance governs Maharashtra, and undoubtedly, this is the most corrupt government in the state. I will refrain from commenting on specific leaders. Even the Prime Minister has acknowledged the allegations regarding the Rs 70,000 crore scam. Thus, I believe no further evidence is necessary.
IANS: India's relations with Bangladesh are strained, particularly concerning the treatment of minorities in the neighboring country. What role do you believe foreign policy plays in this?
Prithviraj Chavan: Our relations with neighboring countries have worsened recently due to our foreign policies. The BCCI's request for the Bangladeshi player to be dropped from the IPL indicates that our sporting relations with Bangladesh may deteriorate, mirroring the situation with Pakistan.
I fail to understand why we are attempting to antagonize our neighboring countries. India, being a vast nation, should strive to maintain amicable relations with the smaller nations nearby.
IANS: Amid the backlash regarding KKR's acquisition of Bangladeshi player Mustafizur Rahman, the BCCI ordered the management to drop him. Do you agree with this?
Prithviraj Chavan: This resembles an economic sanction. In the IPL, a player typically earns about Rs 8-10 crore as fees, which subsequently benefits their country. This can be interpreted as India engaging in political maneuvers through the BCCI.
Dropping a player worth Rs 8-9 crore signifies that we are taking action against Bangladesh, which will further harm our relations. Just as we have issues with Pakistan, it appears our rapport with Bangladesh may follow suit. I do not comprehend the nature of the foreign policy we are pursuing.
IANS: The US has recently attacked Venezuela, taking President Nicolas Maduro and his wife into custody. President Donald Trump has proclaimed that the US will oversee Venezuela during the transitional phase. What is your perspective on this? What stance should India adopt?
Prithviraj Chavan: Tensions between Venezuela and the United States have escalated in recent days. President Trump has asserted that many individuals have been entering the US illegally from Venezuela, coupled with drug trafficking concerns. In response, certain actions were deemed necessary.
On Saturday night, US Special Forces conducted operations in Venezuela, targeting ports and airports and, through a targeted operation, captured President Nicolas Maduro and his spouse.
Additionally, this may serve as a distraction from the Epstein Files issue.
It is my hope that India approaches this matter with discernment. EAM S. Jaishankar should adopt a cautious approach, as we are a significant economy with the capacity to either abstain from aligning or contribute to peace.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the complexities of India's political landscape. While foreign engagements by leaders like Rahul Gandhi may raise eyebrows, they can also serve as vital channels for international dialogue, especially amidst criticisms about India's democratic status. A balanced approach to foreign policy, especially concerning neighboring nations, is crucial for fostering regional stability and cooperation.
NationPress
05/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Prithviraj Chavan's stance on Rahul Gandhi's foreign visits?
Prithviraj Chavan defends Rahul Gandhi's foreign trips, asserting that they are necessary for presenting India's position internationally and that there should be no concerns regarding these visits.
How does Chavan view the current Maharashtra government?
Chavan criticizes the Maharashtra government, calling it the 'most corrupt government' in the state and indicating a need for accountability among political leaders.
What are the implications of the BCCI's decision regarding the Bangladeshi player?
Chavan perceives the BCCI's request to drop the Bangladeshi player as an economic sanction that could harm India's relations with Bangladesh, potentially mirroring tensions with Pakistan.
What is Chavan's perspective on India's foreign policy towards neighboring countries?
Chavan advocates for maintaining good relations with neighboring countries, emphasizing that India should not seek to create enemies but rather foster cooperation.
What does Chavan suggest regarding India's stance on US actions in Venezuela?
Chavan urges India to adopt a cautious and wise approach regarding the US's actions in Venezuela, highlighting the importance of being a strong economic player in global affairs.
