Rahul Gandhi has done it again! Every launch, re-launch, and re-re-launch of the Congress scion seems to falter due to his inability to understand the Bharatiya mindset. As the nation mourns the passing of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, the Congress leader has reportedly flown off to Vietnam.
Why? Perhaps to ring in the New Year in style.
Or, maybe, he plans to ink another “historic” MoU, reminiscent of the controversial one with China.
Unfortunately, this trip coincides with a seven-day mourning period in Bharat, leaving the Indian National Congress (INC) exposed to the very accusations it hurled at the BJP—”dishonoring a former leader of the nation.” Analysts believe this trip highlights Gandhi’s misplaced priorities and his disconnect from the sentiments of Bharat.
Mourning Dr. Singh: INC and Rahul Gandhi’s Hollow Grief
So, Rahul Gandhi left for Vietnam last night to celebrate the New Year party..
The 7 days of national mourning for Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji are still ongoing!
This is the reality of his so-called love and respect for the "first Sikh PM."
— Mr Sinha (@MrSinha_) December 30, 2024
Former PM Dr. Manmohan Singh holds a controversial place in Bharat’s history. While the INC projects him as a respected economist and two-time Prime Minister, critics from the BJP and beyond often point to his government’s appeasement policies, as well as anti-Hindu and anti-India stance on several issues! His image stays marked as the “Accidental Prime Minister” under the shadow of Sonia Gandhi’s NAC.
The Congress, which accused the BJP of disrespecting Dr. Singh in death, has a history of sidelining him in life.
From reducing him to a figurehead during UPA rule to denying him the Bharat Ratna, the party’s relationship with Dr. Singh was far from respectful.
While the country is mourning Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh’s demise, Rahul Gandhi has flown to Vietnam to ring in the New Year.
Rahul Gandhi politicised and exploited Dr Singh’s death for his expedient politics but his contempt for him is unmissable.
The Gandhis and the…
— Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) December 30, 2024
Dr. Singh’s passing marked a solemn moment for the nation, yet it also became a stage for political spectacle. Leaders from across the political spectrum attended his funeral, but Congress’s absence during his ashes immersion ceremony did not go unnoticed. The BJP, on the other hand, ensured full state honors, with President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi paying their respects.
Let me remind you @RahulGandhi your grandfather Feroze Gandhi was cremated (as per his will) at Nigambodh Ghat only. Do you mean to say your grandmother insulted her own husband. https://t.co/4UnYB3wsdy
— Sanjay Dixit ಸಂಜಯ್ ದೀಕ್ಷಿತ್ संजय दीक्षित (@Sanjay_Dixit) December 30, 2024
Rahul Gandhi’s subsequent trip to Vietnam, revealed shortly after, painted a picture of misplaced priorities. The Congress’s claims of championing Dr. Singh’s legacy rang hollow in light of its actions—or lack thereof.
Rahul Gandhi: From Leader of Opposition to Leader of Tourism
#RahulGandhi #ManmohanSingh
Party toh banti hai 🤭 pic.twitter.com/cFAyqAgDfz— RitiH🕉🚩 (@UnapologeticH_1) December 30, 2024
Rahul Gandhi’s frequent foreign trips have earned him the dubious moniker of “Leader of Tourism.” Even during critical moments, such as the 26/11 attacks, Gandhi’s alleged preference for leisure over leadership has drawn widespread criticism. BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla recently quipped, dubbing him the “Leader of Paryatan and Partying.” While harsh, this sentiment captures the growing frustration with Gandhi’s seeming disregard for his responsibilities as the Leader of Opposition (LoP).
Rahul Gandhi has changed the meaning of LoP from Leader of Opposition to Leader of 'pariyatan' (tourism) and party!pic.twitter.com/nfxxF1XDb1
— The Jaipur Dialogues (@JaipurDialogues) December 30, 2024
The position of LoP is far from ceremonial – it is a constitutional responsibility to hold the government accountable and represent the voice of the opposition.
Yet, Gandhi has often been seen prioritizing personal leisure over public duty.
Rahul Gandhi: The epitome of secret foreign travels. https://t.co/ZJdDFc80R4 pic.twitter.com/c7odY4AtJK
— Yo Yo Funny Singh (@moronhumor) December 30, 2024
His foreign trips, often shrouded in secrecy, raise legitimate questions. Whom does he meet? What are the objectives of these trips? Why the consistent pattern of leaving the country during politically or emotionally significant moments? These unanswered questions cast a shadow over his credibility as a leader.
Congress’s Contradictions: Hypocrisy Unmasked
The Congress’s outrage over the BJP’s handling of Dr. Singh’s funeral arrangements reeks of hypocrisy. While accusing the BJP of denying Singh a memorial spot, the Congress leadership failed to accompany the family for the ashes immersion. Analysts suggest this absence may stem from the party underestimating the public’s attention to such details.
Rahul Gandhi’s trip abroad during this period appears less a personal choice and more a reflection of his political approach – or lack thereof.
His New Year celebration in Vietnam sends a message that the Congress’s leadership lacks empathy and accountability. With Sonia Gandhi reportedly unwell and unable to attend events, Rahul’s decision to travel further reinforces his image as a “reckless partygoer” in the eyes of many Indians.
Rahul Gandhi left for Vietnam last night to celebrate the New Year party..
The 7 days of national mourning for Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji are still ongoing!
This is the reality of his so-called love and respect for the "first Sikh PM." pic.twitter.com/0syN7qULq1
— The Analyzer (News Updates🗞️) (@Indian_Analyzer) December 31, 2024
Critics argue that Rahul’s politics revolves around optics – stirring controversy, making speeches, and delivering promises; before disappearing when action is needed. His frequent foreign trips and silence on their agenda have only solidified this perception.
As the Congress struggles to revive its political fortunes, Rahul Gandhi’s escapades serve as a stark reminder of why the party fails to connect with the people. Leaders who prioritize personal leisure over public service inevitably erode trust and loyalty.
Final Thoughts: A Leader Out of Sync with Bharat
Rahul Gandhi’s Vietnam trip amid national mourning isn’t just poor optics—it reflects a deeper problem. It underscores a leader out of touch with the responsibilities of his role and disconnected from the sentiments of the people he claims to represent.
For a party aspiring to lead Bharat, such actions highlight a glaring leadership crisis. At a time when the nation seeks leaders who resonate with its soul, Rahul Gandhi’s repeated absences and escapades widen the gap between his projected image and reality.
India deserves leaders who stand by their people in moments of joy and sorrow -not ones who vanish at the first opportunity for indulgence.