Congress Rebuts BJP Over Rahul Gandhi's US Remarks

The Congress fiercely defended Rahul Gandhi against BJP's criticism regarding his remarks in the US. Gandhi highlighted issues faced by the Sikh community, which led BJP leaders to accuse him of spreading falsehoods. Congress insisted that critiquing the BJP shouldn’t be equated to condemning India.

The Congress on Tuesday hit back at the BJP over its criticism of Rahul Gandhi's recent remarks in the US, stating that the ruling party should not consider itself synonymous with India.

The principal opposition party in the Lok Sabha committed to continuing its scrutiny of government policies.

The BJP had strongly criticized Gandhi for his comments on the Sikh community, suggesting he was attempting to create a 'dangerous narrative' on sensitive issues while abroad.

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri labeled Gandhi's remarks as 'sinister,' accusing him of spreading falsehood among expatriate Sikhs who have little connection to India. Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan also accused Gandhi of defaming India out of frustration from electoral defeats.

Responding to BJP's accusations, Congress media head Pawan Khera questioned when condemning the BJP became equivalent to condemning India. Khera emphasized that it is their prerogative to critique policies and they will persist in doing so. He also addressed alleged election discrepancies cited by an independent body, promising action if Congress comes to power. Khera questioned why BJP criticizes India's founding fathers and international comments by PM Modi on sensitive issues.

Regarding BJP citing the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, Khera stated there is no connection. He accused the ruling party of double standards, highlighting their stance on religious attire. While addressing Indian Americans in Herndon, Gandhi emphasized his views on religious freedoms, especially concerning the Sikh community, underscoring that his fight was for all religions.

Gandhi is currently on a four-day visit to the United States, having already visited Dallas and now in Washington DC.

(With inputs from agencies.)