Rahul Gandhi's Vietnam Visit Sparks Criticism Amid National Mourning

Congress MP Pramod Tiwari clarified Rahul Gandhi's trip to Vietnam was pre-planned, despite criticism from BJP labeling it disrespectful during national mourning for former PM Manmohan Singh. The BJP accused Gandhi of prioritizing leisure over respect, while Congress called BJP's response diversion tactics.

The political arena is witnessing a heated debate following the Vietnam visit of Congress's Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition, Rahul Gandhi. The trip, happening during a period of national mourning for former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, has sparked criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Congress MP Pramod Tiwari defended Gandhi, emphasizing that the trip was pre-scheduled.

Reacting to the visit, BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla accused Rahul Gandhi of showing disrespect by choosing leisure over mourning. Poonawalla remarked, "The nation is mourning, but for him, LoP means Leader of Partying. The trip underscores misplaced priorities, particularly when he refers to Dr. Manmohan Singh as a father figure."

In response, Congress leader Manickam Tagore accused the BJP of attempting to divert attention from relevant issues. Tagore argued, "These are mere diversion tactics. Regardless of Mr. Gandhi's private travels, the real shame is the denial of a proper cremation site for Dr. Singh on the Yamuna banks." The discourse continues as Gandhi's trip coincides with memorial services for Dr. Singh, who was cremated with state honors in Delhi.

(With inputs from agencies.)