Eknath Shinde Slams Rahul Gandhi Over Remarks on PM Modi Foreign Policy
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde launched a sharp attack on Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi in Mumbai on Friday, criticizing him for mocking Prime Minister Narendra Modi's foreign policy.
Responding to Gandhi's recent remarks, Shinde accused the opposition of being unable to tolerate India's national progress. Referring to Gandhi mocking the Prime Minister's foreign policy by hugging Sandeep Dikshit, Shinde questioned whether the Congress leader should be termed a "mimicry artist" and urged the opposition to take pride in the nation's growing global standing and economic advancement.
Shinde emphasized that India's international prestige has grown significantly since Prime Minister Narendra Modi took office in 2014. He noted that between 34 and 35 nations have conferred their highest civilian honours on the Prime Minister. He added that robust global diplomatic ties ensured the country did not encounter an energy crisis during international oil shortages.
Turning his focus to historical governance records, Shinde hit back at opposition allegations against the National Democratic Alliance by pointing to past Congress administrations. He stated that between 1967 and 1971 alone, the Congress brought down 45 governments, imposed President's Rule 16 times, poached 1,800 MLAs, and appointed 115 of them to ministerial posts.
Shinde also criticized opposition actions inside the Parliament complex, referencing an incident where monkeys were brought into the premises and calling such conduct an insult to democracy. He further alleged that Congress leaders avoid direct debates with Union Home Minister Amit Shah out of concern that past actions would be exposed.
Addressing state administrative matters during his address, Shinde shared that Shiv Sena minister Bharat Gogawale would lead the official flag-hoisting ceremony. He also stated that the Chief Minister would soon resolve pending matters regarding the appointment of district guardian ministers.
