New Delhi — Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has sharply criticized Rahul Gandhi for his recent comments made during a visit to the United States, labeling them as “extremely shameful” and detrimental to India’s dignity. Singh took to social media to refute Gandhi’s statements, describing them as “misleading, baseless, and factless.”
Gandhi’s US Remarks Under Scrutiny
During a press conference at the National Press Club in Washington on Tuesday, Rahul Gandhi made statements about Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s handling of India’s foreign relations. While Gandhi supported Modi’s policies on Pakistan, he was critical of Modi’s approach to China, particularly concerning the ongoing border dispute.
Gandhi claimed that Chinese troops have occupied approximately 4,000 square kilometers of Indian territory in Ladakh, comparing it to the size of Delhi. He expressed discontent with the media’s coverage of this issue, labeling the situation as a “disaster.”
Defence Minister’s Response
Reacting to Gandhi’s remarks, Singh accused the Congress leader of spreading falsehoods and harming India’s international reputation. Singh dismissed Gandhi’s claims regarding the India-China border as “misleading and beyond facts,” urging him to avoid making such statements.
Singh also rebuked Gandhi’s earlier comments about the Sikh community in India. Gandhi had allegedly suggested that Sikhs are being restricted from practicing their religion fully. Singh countered this by emphasizing the nation’s respect for the Sikh community and their contributions to Indian culture.
Additional Criticisms
Singh further criticized Gandhi for alleging that the NDA Government intends to abolish reservation policies. He asserted that such claims are unfounded and highlighted the government’s efforts to reinforce reservation systems for the benefit of Dalits, backward classes, and tribals.
Singh concluded his remarks by accusing Gandhi of propagating falsehoods, suggesting that his “shop of love” has turned into a “shop of lies.” The Defence Minister’s comments reflect the ongoing political tensions between the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress, as Gandhi’s international statements continue to attract scrutiny.
Public and Political Reactions
The criticism from Singh has sparked a renewed debate over the nature of Gandhi’s remarks and the broader implications for Indian politics and international relations. As the controversy unfolds, both the BJP and Congress are likely to continue their public exchanges on these sensitive issues.
