Amid the farmer agitation and impending organisational elections of the party, former Congress chief Rahul Gandhi left for Milan on Sunday. His absence from India comes also at a critical juncture for Congress and its Central Election Authority (CEA) which is preparing for party’s presidential elections.
His departure Italy comes a day before Congress’ foundation Day.
Several senior Congress leaders have questioned the frequent vacations by Rahul Gandhi and his sister party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and urged them to spare time and effort for the revival of the party.
RJD leader Shivanand Tewari had slammed Rahul for holidaying in Shimla during the Bihar election campaign and held him responsible e for the Grand alliance narrow defeat at the hands in NDA.
After facing criticism Rahul had to cancel a two day vacation in Jaisalmer.
Both Rahul and party Chief Sonia Gandhi had also missed the parliamentary debate on the three farm laws due to Sonia Gandhi’s ill-health- necessitating her visit to the USA. Rahul had accompanied her.
Rahul had chosen to go abroad when Congress had been exchanging barbs with the BJP over the farm laws. Punjab Congress leaders have been providing logistical support to the protesting Punjab farmers.
Rahul Gandhi had recently met President Ram Nath Kovind as part of two separate Opposition delegations, demanding the repeal of the three controversial farm laws.
Monday, 28 December 2020 | PNS | New Delhi
