‘LoP should be present during Parliament sessions’: CPI(M)’s Amraram on Rahul Gandhi’s foreign visit

On Wednesday, CPI(M) MP Amraram told LatestNewsX that the Leader of Opposition must attend Parliament sessions, a point that has come under scrutiny now that news has surfaced of Rahul Gandhi’s planned trip to Germany during the Winter Session. Media reports say Gandhi will head to Germany to meet Indian expatriates and German ministers—a move that has sparked debate over his duties as Leader of the Opposition while Parliament is sitting. When asked about the possible reason behind Gandhi’s overseas visit, CPI(M) MP Amraram said, “Only he might know why he is leaving during the session. I believe it is the duty of the Leader of the Opposition to be present here whenever Parliament is in session.”

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi was equally harsh, arguing that Gandhi often leaves Parliament while sessions are underway. He added, “Gandhi later claims that he didn’t get a chance to speak in Parliament. However, in reality, he is often absent,” calling him “a part-time, non-serious political leader.” Extending his remarks, Joshi noted, “Let him go. He is mostly abroad whenever Parliament is in session. Later, he claims he doesn’t get a chance to speak, but the truth is, he isn’t even here… He is a part-time, non-serious political leader.”

With the Winter Session running until December 19, critics question whether Gandhi’s trip aligns with his obligations as Leader of the Opposition. In response, NCP(SCP) MLA Rohit Pawar defended Gandhi, asking why his overseas trip should stir controversy. Speaking to reporters, Pawar said, “Why is there a problem with it (foreign visit). There are other Opposition MPs in Parliament who are raising the questions; the ruling party should answer them. As far as Rahul Gandhi is concerned, whenever he goes abroad, he visits a university or speaks with Indians there. But why he has gone to Germany this time, I cannot specifically mention. We will only know later why he went there.”

Gandhi has previously warned that the government allegedly discourages foreign dignitaries from meeting him as Leader of the Opposition. The government replied that such decisions rest with the visiting delegations, not Indian officials, citing instances where Gandhi has met foreign leaders.

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