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Rahul Gandhi's Putin Meeting Claim: Why BJP's Response Raises Protocol Questions

Rahul Gandhi has made a serious allegation against the government regarding foreign protocol. He claims the Centre advises visiting delegations not to meet the Leader of the Opposition. BJP leaders have swiftly rejected this, stating the government follows all protocols. The timing of these remarks, just before Putin's visit, sets the stage for a political showdown.

Key Points: BJP Rejects Rahul Gandhi Claim on Opposition Meeting Foreign Delegates

  • Rahul Gandhi alleges Centre advises foreign delegations against meeting the LoP
  • BJP MPs reject claim, stating government follows due protocol
  • Gandhi cites tradition from Manmohan Singh and Atal Bihari Vajpayee eras
  • JD(U) and Union Minister say visiting heads of state decide their own meetings
2 min read

'Govt follows protocol': BJP responds after Rahul Gandhi remarks on Oppn-Putin meeting

BJP leaders counter Rahul Gandhi's allegation that Centre blocks Opposition from meeting foreign delegations, asserting government follows due protocol in all matters.

"These decisions are made by the government... His commitment to the nation is questionable. - BJP MP Kangana Ranaut"

New Delhi, Dec 4

After Congress MP Rahul Gandhi alleged that the Centre has been advising foreign delegations against meeting or interacting with the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) - a practice he said was followed during previous UPA and NDA regimes, ruling party leaders on Thursday rejected the claim, asserting that the “government follows due protocol” in all matters.

The startling charge by Rahul Gandhi, while speaking to reporters outside Parliament, comes hours ahead of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s two-day visit to India. His remarks are set to raise eyebrows in the political corridors and also set the stage for heated sparring between the BJP and Congress.

Rahul Gandhi said, “Meetings with the LOP take place with delegations coming from outside. It has been a long-held tradition and has always been done this way,” he said, while citing instances during Manmohan Singh and Atal Bihari Vajpayee governments."

Speaking to IANS, BJP MP Kangana Ranaut said, “These decisions are made by the government. Atal ji was a national asset, and the entire country was proud of him. He was a great patriot. I don’t know why Rahul Gandhi is not being allowed, but in my opinion, his commitment to the nation is questionable. His role in creating unrest and trying to divide the country raises doubts about his intentions. And if Rahul Gandhi is comparing himself to Atal ji, then I would suggest he join the BJP — only then could he become like him.”

BJP MP Bhim Singh said, “Why would the government stop him? He only creates chaos and does not speak where he is supposed to speak.”

Echoing a similar stance, BJP MP Brij Lal added, “The government follows protocol, and work will be carried out accordingly. Rahul Gandhi is only making this political.”

JD(U) leader K. C. Tyagi clarified, “The government does not decide such protocols. Visiting heads of state themselves decide whom they wish to meet.”

Union Minister Ramdas Athawale added, “Foreign leaders visit on the invitation of the ruling party or government. If President Putin wishes, Rahul Gandhi, as LoP, can meet him. The government has no role in that.”

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
I remember during Vajpayee ji's time, Sonia Gandhi as LoP did meet foreign leaders. There is a precedent. The government should clarify the protocol clearly instead of giving vague statements. Transparency is important for our democracy.
R
Rohit P
Kangana Ranaut's comment is unnecessary and personal. We can disagree with Rahul Gandhi's politics without questioning his patriotism. That kind of rhetoric is not good for healthy debate. Let's stick to the issue of protocol.
S
Sarah B
As an observer, it seems the BJP's response is a bit defensive. If it's truly about protocol, just state the rulebook. JD(U) leader's point makes sense - ultimately it's Putin's choice whom to meet. The whole debate feels staged for the news cycle.
V
Vikram M
Why is this even news? Putin is here for important strategic talks. The media should focus on the outcomes of the visit - defense deals, energy cooperation - not this political mudslinging. Our national interest should come first.
M
Michael C
The timing is interesting. Raising this just hours before Putin lands ensures maximum media attention. Whether it's a genuine concern or political strategy, it definitely takes away from the main agenda of the visit.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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