Rahul Gandhi Faces Criticism from BJP Over Vietnam Trip Following Manmohan Singh’s Death
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has launched a sharp attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of insensitivity for flying to Vietnam to celebrate the New Year shortly after the death of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. The BJP criticized Gandhi, alleging that his actions display a lack of respect for the late Congress leader, even as the nation observes a period of mourning.
BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla stated that the timing of Rahul Gandhi’s trip was deeply inappropriate and claimed it underscores the Congress party’s continued neglect of Dr. Manmohan Singh. Poonawalla pointed out that even in the former Prime Minister’s lifetime, Congress allegedly failed to honor him, citing the denial of a Bharat Ratna as an example. According to the BJP leader, Rahul Gandhi’s absence during this somber time reflects the party’s indifference. He also claimed that no Congress representatives were present to collect Dr. Singh’s ashes, accusing the party of further disrespecting its veteran leader.
Another BJP leader, Amit Malviya, accused Rahul Gandhi of politicizing the death of Manmohan Singh for his own agenda while displaying contempt for his legacy. In a social media post, Malviya linked the Congress’s actions to a broader disregard for Sikh leaders, referencing past incidents such as the desecration of the Darbar Sahib during Indira Gandhi’s tenure.
Adding to the critique, Poonawalla described Rahul Gandhi as a “leader of tourism,” asserting that the Congress leader has consistently prioritized leisure over responsibilities. He recalled past incidents, such as Gandhi allegedly partying during the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, to bolster his claim. Poonawalla argued that this latest instance further reinforces a pattern of apathy.
In response, Congress leaders defended Rahul Gandhi and criticized the BJP for its attacks. Congress MP Manickam Tagore dismissed the BJP’s remarks as diversionary tactics. He countered by accusing the Modi government of disrespecting Manmohan Singh’s family, particularly over the decision to cremate him at Delhi’s Nigambodh Ghat instead of a designated site on the Yamuna banks. Tagore also emphasized that Rahul Gandhi’s private travel plans should not concern the BJP.
The Congress clarified that the party deliberately refrained from accompanying Dr. Singh’s family during the ashes immersion to respect their privacy. Tagore questioned the BJP’s focus on Rahul Gandhi’s travel plans, urging them to avoid politicizing the situation.
Manmohan Singh, a respected economist and India’s 13th Prime Minister, passed away last week at the age of 92. A leader with a sterling reputation for his contributions to India’s economic policies, his cremation drew tributes from across the political spectrum. However, the political storm ignited by Rahul Gandhi’s Vietnam trip has added a layer of controversy to the mourning period.
Rahul Gandhi’s actions and the subsequent political sparring between the BJP and Congress have drawn attention on social media and sparked public debate. While the BJP has continued its attack, Congress leaders stand firm in their defense, portraying the criticisms as baseless and politically motivated.
