BJP Leader Criticizes Rahul Gandhi for Remarks Abroad
In a recent press conference, BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad accused Congress MP Rahul Gandhi of disrespecting India during his foreign visits. Prasad defended the central government against Gandhi's claims of an attack on democracy, asserting that such comments are driven by a desire for power. He warned that continued insults towards India would lead to a loss of voter support. Gandhi, speaking from Colombia, highlighted the challenges facing Indian democracy and the need for a framework that supports the country's diverse traditions. This exchange underscores the ongoing political tensions between the BJP and Congress.
Oct 2, 2025, 19:02 IST
BJP's Response to Rahul Gandhi's Comments
On Thursday, senior BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad accused Congress MP Rahul Gandhi of disrespecting India while abroad, defending the central government against Gandhi's claims of an "attack on democracy." Speaking at a press conference, Prasad asserted that Gandhi's comments were motivated by a desire for power. He also criticized the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha for disparaging Prime Minister Narendra Modi and India's progress.
Prasad remarked that it would have been better if Gandhi had wished for India's welfare instead of attacking the nation during his foreign visits. He stated, "In Bogotá, Colombia, the Leader of the Opposition claimed that there is no democracy in India and that people lack freedom of speech. Gandhi frequently insults Prime Minister Modi and the country's development."
The BJP MP warned that if Gandhi continues to insult India during his travels, voters will not support him. He highlighted Gandhi's apparent admiration for China, referencing his statement that India cannot become a global power. Prasad emphasized, "If you demean India abroad, the public will not vote for you, and you will not win seats this time. You praise China while claiming India cannot be a major global power, yet India is currently the world's fourth-largest economy and on track to become the third-largest."
These comments followed Gandhi's criticism of the Modi government, where he stated that the biggest challenge facing India is the attack on democracy. Speaking at a program at EIA University in Colombia, he highlighted the need to address "structural flaws" and emphasized the importance of allowing the country's diverse traditions to thrive.
Gandhi expressed optimism about India's strong capabilities in sectors like engineering and healthcare but noted that there are flaws in the system that need rectification. He argued that the attack on democracy poses a significant risk, asserting that a democratic framework is essential for nurturing the country's diversity, which includes various traditions, beliefs, and ideas. He concluded that the best way to create space for these diverse elements is through a democratic system.