December 30, 2024: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has launched a scathing attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of showing "contempt" for former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh following his recent trip to Vietnam amid the ongoing national mourning for the late leader.

BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla condemned Gandhi for allegedly flying abroad to celebrate the New Year, only days after Singh's passing. “While the country is in mourning over Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's demise, Rahul Gandhi has flown abroad to usher in the New Year, ignoring the national seven-day mourning period,” Poonawalla said. “Congress never cared for Dr. Manmohan Singh, and they continue to disrespect him even after his death. They insulted him during his lifetime, and they do so now.”

The BJP’s criticism follows allegations from Congress that the Central government had shown disrespect to Manmohan Singh by not cremating him at a designated site meant for his memorial. Poonawalla added that Gandhi’s actions were emblematic of the Congress party’s attitude towards Singh, citing their failure to grant him the Bharat Ratna.

"Yesterday, no one from Congress even went to collect his ashes. This is the true face of Congress—abusing and insulting Dr. Manmohan Singh," Poonawalla stated.

In response, the Congress clarified that its leaders did not accompany Singh’s family during the immersion of his ashes, stating they respected the family's desire for privacy during the grieving process.

Poonawalla also took a swipe at Gandhi, calling him the "Leader of 'Paryatan'," referencing his frequent overseas trips. "Rahul Gandhi has changed the meaning of Leader of Opposition (LoP) to Leader of 'paryatan' (tourism)," Poonawalla remarked. "At a time when the nation is grieving, he’s off for 'paryatan' and personal affairs."

He further recalled a previous incident, criticizing Gandhi's behavior during the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, when Gandhi was reportedly seen partying through the night while the nation was in crisis.

The BJP's remarks have sparked a political row, with Congress leaders defending their position, while the BJP continues to voice strong opposition over Gandhi's actions during a period of national mourning.