Why is the Indian Government Avoiding Meetings Between Foreign Dignitaries and Opposition Leaders?
Concerns Raised by Rahul Gandhi
In New Delhi, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi expressed concerns on Thursday regarding the government's approach towards foreign dignitaries, claiming that they are advised not to engage with the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) due to the government's perceived insecurity.
His comments were made just before Russian President Vladimir Putin's scheduled two-day visit to India.
Gandhi pointed out that it has been customary for visiting foreign dignitaries to meet the LoP, a practice that he believes is being overlooked by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Ministry of External Affairs.
He stated, "Traditionally, foreign visitors would meet with the LoP. This was common during the tenures of leaders like Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh. However, currently, when dignitaries arrive or when I travel abroad, the government discourages them from meeting the LoP," while addressing reporters at the Parliament House.
He further emphasized the significance of these meetings, asserting that the LoP provides an alternative viewpoint.
Gandhi remarked, "We represent India too; it is not solely the government that does. The government seems reluctant for Opposition leaders to engage with foreign officials. This tradition of meetings is not being upheld by Modi or the foreign ministry," without directly mentioning Putin.
When questioned about the government's motives, he attributed it to their "insecurity."
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, echoing her brother's sentiments, stated that it is standard protocol for visiting dignitaries to meet the LoP.
She commented, "The government's policies seem to stem from a desire to monopolize all voices, disregarding established protocols. Every democracy has its protocols that should be respected."
She added, "The government's actions reflect their insecurity. When dignitaries visit, they should meet the LoP. Breaking this protocol indicates insecurity, nothing more."
K C Venugopal, Congress's general secretary in charge of organization, highlighted that meetings between the LoP and foreign dignitaries are a long-standing democratic tradition that enhances India's international relations.
He stated on social media, "Those who only wish to express their own views clearly disregard these traditions, which are vital for our foreign policy engagement."
Putin is expected to arrive later today for a summit with Prime Minister Modi, focusing on strengthening defense ties, shielding India-Russia trade from external pressures, and exploring collaboration in small modular reactors.