BJP Criticizes Rahul Gandhi Vietnam Trip; Congress Hits Back
A new political controversy has unfolded after BJP IT cell chief Amit Malviya accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of insensitivity for traveling to Vietnam shortly after the passing of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh. The Congress has dismissed these accusations, labeling them as diversion tactics by the ruling party.
Amit Malviya took to X (formerly Twitter) to criticize Gandhi, stating, “While the country is mourning Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh’s demise, Rahul Gandhi has flown to Vietnam to ring in the New Year.” He further reignited historical wounds by alleging anti-Sikh sentiments within the Congress, referring to Operation Blue Star and Indira Gandhi’s controversial actions during her tenure.
The BJP also questioned why the Gandhi family did not attend Singh’s ash immersion ceremony, raising concerns about their perceived absence from the late leader’s final tributes.
Senior Congress leader Manickam Tagore defended Gandhi and accused the BJP of engaging in “diversion politics.” He criticized Prime Minister Modi’s handling of Singh’s funeral arrangements, calling it a “grave insult” to the two-time Prime Minister.
Tagore further retorted, “If Mr. Gandhi travels privately, why does it bother you? Get well in the New Year.”
This clash comes on the heels of a heated debate over Dr. Manmohan Singh’s cremation site. The Congress had requested a location designated for a future memorial, while the Centre decided on Nigambodh Ghat. The BJP accused Congress of politicizing the issue, while Congress argued that Singh deserved a place of greater significance.
The government has since clarified that a trust would be created for Singh’s memorial, but his cremation would take place at the designated crematorium.
The dispute highlights the escalating tensions between the BJP and Congress. The BJP’s accusations and Congress’s counter-allegations reflect a larger narrative of political rivalry, even in moments of national mourning.
