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Priyanka Gandhi's Sharp Retort: Why Target LoP's Travels Amid PM's Trips?

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has come out swinging in defense of her brother, turning the tables on critics of Rahul Gandhi's planned Germany trip. She pointedly asked why questions are only raised about the Leader of Opposition's travels when Prime Minister Modi also spends significant time abroad. The timing of Rahul's visit during the ongoing Winter Session has sparked a political firestorm, with opposition and ruling party MPs alike questioning his commitment. The government has pushed back against claims it discourages foreign meetings, setting the stage for continued parliamentary drama.

Key Points: Priyanka Gandhi Defends Rahul's Germany Trip Amid Parliament Session

  • Priyanka Gandhi deflects criticism by comparing Rahul's travel to PM Modi's frequent foreign trips
  • Rahul Gandhi's planned Germany trip includes meetings with diaspora and German ministers
  • BJP and CPI(M) MPs criticize LoP's absence during crucial Winter Session
  • Government denies discouraging foreign dignitaries from meeting Rahul Gandhi
3 min read

'Why raise questions only on LoP's travels', asks Priyanka Gandhi

Priyanka Gandhi questions BJP's focus on Rahul Gandhi's Germany visit, highlighting PM Modi's frequent foreign travel during Parliament's Winter Session.

'Why raise questions only on LoP's travels', asks Priyanka Gandhi
"PM Modi spends almost half his working time outside the country. Why are they raising questions on the Leader of Opposition travelling? - Priyanka Gandhi Vadra"

New Delhi, Dec 10

Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Wednesday diverged the question regarding Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi's Germany tour amid the ongoing Winter Session of the Parliament and turned it over to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's foreign visits.

"PM Modi spends almost half his working time outside the country. Why are they (BJP) raising questions on the Leader of Opposition travelling?" Priyanka Gandhi said while talking to the reporters.

According to recent media reports, Rahul Gandhi is likely to travel to Germany, where he plans to meet members of the Indian diaspora as well as German government ministers. The timing of the visit has sparked a political debate over his role as the LoP while Parliament is in session.

Earlier, CPI(M) MP Amraram on Wednesday said that it is the responsibility of the Leader of Opposition (LoP) to be present during Parliament sessions.

When asked about the possible reason behind Gandhi's overseas visit, CPI(M) MP Amraram told IANS, "Only he might know why he is leaving during the session. I believe it is the duty of the Leader of the Opposition to be present here whenever Parliament is in session."

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi also came down heavily on Rahul Gandhi over his foreign travels, alleging that he is frequently abroad when Parliament is in session.

"Gandhi later claims that he didn't get a chance to speak in Parliament. However, in reality, he is often absent," Joshi said, calling him "a part-time, non-serious political leader".

Taking his criticism further, the Union Minister added, "Let him go. He is mostly abroad whenever Parliament is in session. Later, he claims he doesn't get a chance to speak, but the truth is, he isn't even here... He is a part-time, non-serious political leader."

With the Winter Session of Parliament scheduled to continue until December 19, the proposed timing of Gandhi's visit has raised fresh questions about his commitment to parliamentary responsibilities as the Leader of the Opposition.

Gandhi has previously voiced concern over the government's alleged discouragement of foreign dignitaries from meeting him in his capacity as Leader of the Opposition.

However, the government countered that decisions about meetings with dignitaries lie solely with the visiting delegations, not with Indian authorities, and points to recent instances where Gandhi did meet visiting foreign leaders.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

A
Anjali F
Sorry, but Amraram ji is correct. The Winter Session is crucial. As LoP, his primary duty is in Parliament, holding the government accountable. Meetings in Germany can wait or be done by video call. This shows misplaced priorities.
V
Vikram M
Both sides are playing politics. The PM travels as head of government, which is part of his job. The LoP's main theatre is the Lok Sabha. But honestly, how much real debate happens in Parliament these days anyway? Most bills are passed without proper discussion.
S
Sarah B
Engaging with the diaspora and foreign governments is also important for an opposition leader to build connections and understand global perspectives. It shouldn't be seen as shirking duty. A balanced view is needed.
K
Karthik V
The "part-time leader" jab from Joshi is a low blow, but it will stick if this becomes a pattern. The opposition needs to be seen as serious and present. This gives the ruling party an easy talking point. Not a smart move, Rahul ji.
P
Priyanka N
Typical whataboutery from Priyanka Gandhi. Instead of answering why *her brother* is absent, she points to PM Modi. Two wrongs don't make a right. As a taxpayer, I expect my LoP to be in the House during session. Period.

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