Rahul Gandhi mocks PM Modi's foreign policy with staged hug

During the Rachnatmak Congress National Convention in New Delhi, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s foreign policy, alleging it has been reduced to 'hugging leaders.' To demonstrate his point, Gandhi staged a mock hug with Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit. The exchange drew controversy after Dikshit jokingly asked if Gandhi was hugging him thinking he was Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, to which Gandhi replied, “I have not reached there yet.”

Gandhi also criticized the BJP and RSS, calling them a “bunch of jokers” and claiming the RSS has become an instrument for large corporations. He emphasized the importance of freedom of expression and criticized the government's handling of economic policies and border tensions.

The remarks triggered widespread condemnation from BJP leaders. Union Ministers Giriraj Singh and Rajnath Singh criticized Gandhi’s conduct as “disgraceful” and “unbecoming” of the Leader of Opposition, arguing it insults India’s international reputation. Other leaders, including Devendra Fadnavis and Himanta Biswa Sarma, demanded apologies, accusing Gandhi of using indecent language and attempting to sabotage India’s foreign relations.