The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has launched a scathing attack on Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi over his alleged Vietnam trip during the seven-day national mourning period for former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
While speaking to the media, BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawala stated, "Rahul Gandhi has changed the meaning of LoP from Leader of Opposition to Leader of 'Paryatan' (tourism) and Leader of Party. At a time when the country is grieving the demise of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Rahul Gandhi has left for 'Paryatan' (tourism) and partying..."
"Rahul Gandhi and 'Paryatan' is nothing new. When the 26/11 attacks happened in Mumbai, he was partying all night. He is not concerned about the demise of Dr Manmohan Singh..." he added.
BJP IT cell head Amit Malviya also slammed Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of politicising the former PM's demise.
Taking to X, Malviya said, "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 politicised and exploited Dr Singh’s death for his expedient politics, but his contempt for him is unmissable."
"The Gandhis and the Congress hate the Sikhs. Never forget that Indira Gandhi desecrated the Darbar Sahib," he added.
Responding to the allegations, Congress leader Manickam Tagore hit back at Malviya, stating, "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," he added.
Rahul Gandhi became the target of BJP leaders after Congress leaders were notably absent during the ash immersion ritual on Sunday. However, the Congress party issued a clarification, stating that its leaders did not accompany Dr Singh's family to ensure their privacy.
