Rahul Gandhi under fire for controversial remarks, meeting during US tour

Congress MP and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has generated significant controversy during his recent trip to the United States. His comments regarding the status of Sikhs in India, coupled with his meeting with American MP Ilhan Omar, have drawn considerable attention and criticism from both domestic and international quarters.

Edited By: Shantanu Poswal

Last Updated : 15 September 2024, 11:00 AM IST

Gurpatwant Singh Pannun and Rahul Gandhi. (X/ANI)

New Delhi: Rahul Gandhi's recent comments regarding the Sikh community in India have ignited significant controversy. During a Sikh event in Virginia, USA, Gandhi questioned Sikh journalist Bhalinder Virmani about the ability of Sikhs to wear turbans or Karas and visit Gurudwaras freely in India. These remarks quickly garnered attention from the Khalistani terrorist group Sikhs for Justice, which has used the comments to further its anti-India agenda.

Meeting with Ilhan Omar adds to controversy

In addition to his statements about Sikhs, Gandhi's meeting with American MP Ilhan Omar has further fueled the controversy. Omar, known for her critical stance on India, has previously expressed sympathy towards Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and made remarks aligned with the Pakistani intelligence agency ISI. This meeting is viewed by many as aligning with anti-India sentiments, exacerbating the criticism of Gandhi's actions.

Reactions from Sikh journalist and Congress party

Bhalinder Virmani, the Sikh journalist referenced by Gandhi, expressed frustration over the Congress leader's comments. Virmani emphasised that he has never encountered issues with wearing religious symbols in India and finds Gandhi’s remarks unfounded. "I wanted to ask him why he is saying this," Virmani said, noting that he regularly visits Gurudwaras without any problems.

Within his own party, Gandhi's actions have not gone unnoticed. Laxman Singh, a Congress leader from Madhya Pradesh and brother of former MP CM Digvijaya Singh, voiced his concerns on social media. "The US tour of Lok Sabha Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi seems to be mired in controversy. He has also met with India-bashing American MP Ilhan Omar. Enough, Leaderji!" Singh wrote.

Impact on Gandhi's political career and India's image

The Indian diaspora and citizens are closely watching the unfolding controversy surrounding Gandhi's remarks and meetings. His statements about Sikh freedoms and his controversial meeting with Ilhan Omar have sparked a broader debate about his suitability as Leader of the Opposition. Critics argue that these actions are damaging to India’s international reputation. The repercussions of Gandhi's US visit on his political career and India's global standing remain to be seen.