The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has launched a scathing attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of disrespecting the death of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh by choosing to celebrate the New Year in Vietnam during the national mourning period. The Congress has hit back, labeling the BJP's accusations as a mere diversion tactic and denying any disrespect towards Singh's death. This latest political controversy comes just days after the cremation of Singh with full state honours, which saw tensions rise between the two parties.
Political Controversy Erupts Over Rahul Gandhi's Vietnam Trip During National Mourning
A political firestorm has erupted after Congress leader Rahul Gandhi chose to celebrate the New Year in Vietnam during the national mourning period following the death of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) seized on this decision to launch a scathing attack on Gandhi, accusing him of disrespecting Singh's memory.
Background
Manmohan Singh, India's 13th Prime Minister, passed away on May 17, 2023, at the age of 89. He was cremated with full state honours on May 20, with President Draupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in attendance. During the national mourning period, several political leaders expressed their condolences and paid homage to Singh.
Rahul Gandhi's Trip
However, Rahul Gandhi, the former Congress President, chose to spend the New Year in Vietnam, a decision that drew sharp criticism from the BJP. BJP spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia accused Gandhi of "disrespecting" Singh's death and showing "insensitivity" towards the nation.
Congress's Defense
The Congress strongly defended Gandhi's actions. Party spokesperson Randeep Surjewala dismissed the BJP's accusations as a "diversionary tactic." He claimed that Gandhi had planned his trip before Singh's passing and had no intention of disrespecting the former Prime Minister.
Aftermath
The controversy has further escalated political tensions between the BJP and the Congress. The BJP has demanded an apology from Gandhi, while the Congress has accused the ruling party of cheap politics. The issue has also sparked a debate about the appropriate way to pay respects during a national mourning period.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
1. Why was Rahul Gandhi criticized for visiting Vietnam during the national mourning period?
Gandhi was criticized because his trip was seen as disrespectful to the memory of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who had recently passed away.
2. What was the Congress's response to the BJP's accusations?
The Congress dismissed the accusations as a diversion tactic and defended Gandhi's trip, claiming that it had been planned beforehand.
3. How did the BJP respond to the Congress's defense?
The BJP maintained its criticism of Gandhi and demanded an apology for his actions.
4. Has the political controversy subsided?
No, the controversy has continued to escalate, with both the BJP and the Congress trading accusations and demanding apologies.
5. What is the appropriate way to pay respects during a national mourning period?
There is no clear-cut consensus on the appropriate way to pay respects during a national mourning period. Some may choose to attend memorial services or observe a period of silence, while others may believe it is sufficient to express their condolences and respect privately.
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