As the G20 summit unfolds in Delhi, political tensions have escalated between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Congress. On the inaugural day of the international gathering, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi expressed his disapproval of the government’s approach, suggesting that India’s reality should not be hidden from visiting dignitaries.
Gandhi took to social media, posting a tweet that read, “GOI is hiding our poor people and animals.” His remarks center on the alleged concealment of impoverished communities in the capital and the treatment of animals in the lead-up to the G20 summit.
The Congress party has been unrelenting in its criticism of various aspects of the G20 event, with Rahul Gandhi focusing his objection on the alleged neglect of Delhi’s impoverished population. The party shared a video showcasing a “coolie camp,” a slum in Vasant Vihar, which they claim was kept out of public view ahead of the summit.
In another video, the Congress party raised concerns about the treatment of street dogs, asserting that they were cruelly captured and confined in cages as Delhi prepared to host international leaders. The video alleged that these animals were deprived of food and water, enduring extreme stress and fear.
Congress leaders also pointed out what they described as “loopholes” in the G20 arrangements. Jairam Ramesh, a prominent Congress member, claimed that India had not permitted the media to question US President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Narendra Modi after their bilateral meeting, citing President Biden’s team’s statements.
Congress leader Supriya Shrinate further added fuel to the controversy by sharing a video in which a classical rendition of Ed Sheeran’s “Shape of You” played as G20 leaders arrived in India. She also highlighted an awkward moment involving the head of state of Oman during a cultural function, criticizing the diplomatic oversight.
Amidst the growing political tensions, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge expressed his disappointment at not being invited to the G20 dinner, deeming it “low-level politics.” Several Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, echoed Kharge’s sentiments, suggesting that it indicated a lack of respect for leaders representing a significant portion of India’s population.
The G20 summit in Delhi is not only serving as a platform for discussions on global issues but has also become a battleground for political confrontations, as the BJP and Congress engage in heated exchanges over various facets of the event.
Sources By Agencies