BJP Slams Rahul Gandhi for showing disrespect to the late Manmohan Singh
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has criticized Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, for traveling to Vietnam during the nation’s mourning period following the death of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. The BJP accused Rahul Gandhi of showing disrespect to the late Congress leader and referred to him as a “leader of paryatan” (tourism).
BJP’s Accusations
BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla stated that Rahul Gandhi’s decision to leave the country just days after Manmohan Singh’s demise highlighted the Congress’s disregard for the late leader. “While the country is mourning Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s demise, Rahul Gandhi has flown abroad to bring in the New Year even as the nation observes seven days of mourning. Congress doesn’t care for Dr. Manmohan Singh. They abused and insulted him during his lifetime and continue to do so now,” Poonawalla said to ANI.
The BJP spokesperson further alleged that the Congress party neglected Manmohan Singh during his lifetime and even after his passing. Poonawalla claimed, “Yesterday, nobody went to collect his ashes. Congress even denied the Bharat Ratna to Dr. Manmohan Singh. This is their true face.”
Amit Malviya’s Remarks
BJP leader Amit Malviya also weighed in on the controversy, accusing Rahul Gandhi of exploiting Dr. Singh’s death for political purposes. “While the country is mourning Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh’s demise, Rahul Gandhi has flown to Vietnam to ring in the New Year. Rahul Gandhi politicized and exploited Dr. Singh’s death for his expedient politics, but his contempt for him is unmissable,” Malviya wrote in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Malviya’s remarks also extended to a broader critique of the Congress party, alleging that it has historically shown animosity towards the Sikh community. “The Gandhis and the Congress hate the Sikhs. Never forget that Indira Gandhi desecrated the Darbar Sahib,” he added.
Congress’s Counterattack
The Congress party responded to the BJP’s allegations with a counterattack, defending Rahul Gandhi’s private travel plans and criticizing the government’s handling of Manmohan Singh’s funeral arrangements. Congress MP Manickam Tagore took to X to express his frustration, saying, “When will the Sanghis stop this ‘Take Diversion’ politics? The way Modi denied Dr. Saheb a place for cremation on the Yamuna banks and how his ministers cornered Dr. Saheb’s family is shameful. If Mr. Gandhi travels privately, why does it bother you? Get well in the New Year.”
Additionally, the Congress clarified its absence from the ashes immersion ceremony. A party spokesperson stated that the Congress leadership chose not to attend to respect the privacy of Manmohan Singh’s family. “The family’s wishes were paramount, and the party wanted to accord them the space to grieve,” the spokesperson said.
Rahul Gandhi’s Past Criticisms
The BJP’s criticism of Rahul Gandhi’s travel comes against the backdrop of previous accusations of insensitivity. Poonawalla referred to past incidents, claiming, “At a time when the 26/11 attack happened in Mumbai, he was partying all night. He is not concerned about the demise of Dr. Manmohan Singh.”
The BJP has frequently targeted Rahul Gandhi over his foreign trips, often branding him as disconnected from India’s political and social realities. Critics of the Congress leader argue that his travel patterns undermine his credibility as a serious politician, particularly during moments of national significance.
Manmohan Singh’s Passing
Manmohan Singh, who served as India’s 13th Prime Minister, passed away last week at the age of 92. Known for his economic reforms and leadership during challenging times, Singh’s death has been mourned nationwide. He was cremated at Delhi’s Nigambodh Ghat. However, the BJP and Congress have engaged in a bitter war of words over the funeral arrangements and subsequent ceremonies.
Singh’s tenure as Prime Minister is often remembered for its landmark economic policies and attempts to strengthen India’s global standing. Despite being a revered figure in Indian politics, his passing has become a flashpoint for partisan battles, reflecting the deeply polarized political environment in the country.
Public Reaction
The incident has sparked a mixed response among the public and political analysts. While BJP supporters have amplified the allegations against Rahul Gandhi, Congress sympathizers have dismissed the criticism as political posturing. Many have pointed out that personal travel plans should not be conflated with official responsibilities, particularly when the travel is private and unconnected to political duties.
Observers have noted that the BJP’s criticism of Rahul Gandhi aligns with its broader strategy of targeting Congress leaders to consolidate its own political narrative. Conversely, Congress’s counterattacks aim to shift focus onto the BJP’s governance and its alleged mishandling of key issues, including the treatment of Manmohan Singh’s funeral arrangements.
Conclusion
As the controversy unfolds, it raises questions about the nature of political discourse in India. The legacy of Manmohan Singh, a leader whose contributions to India’s development are widely acknowledged, has become overshadowed by partisan conflicts. Both the BJP and Congress have sought to use the moment to their political advantage, underscoring the challenges of maintaining civility and focus during times of national mourning.
While the BJP continues to question Rahul Gandhi’s commitment to his responsibilities, Congress remains steadfast in defending its leader and redirecting criticism toward the ruling government. The coming days will likely see further developments as both parties attempt to shape public opinion in their favor.
