Following Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's recent speech in Colombia, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey has strongly criticized Gandhi and demanded the confiscation of his diplomatic passport, calling his remarks "baseless".
During an interaction at EIA University in Colombia, Gandhi stated that India is facing its greatest risk from an "attack on democracy". He argued that the democratic system in India is under a "wholesale assault," which prevents the country from reaching its full potential as a world leader. Gandhi also alleged that there is rampant corruption in India, with a few powerful businesses controlling the economy through close ties with the Prime Minister.
Dubey has accused Gandhi of making unfounded statements against the Indian government while abroad. He compared Gandhi's criticisms of the Constitution and government policies to statements made by controversial figures like Zakir Naik and Khalistan terrorist Pannu. Dubey told reporters that "the time has come for his diplomatic passport to be confiscated and legal action should be taken against him".
Gandhi's comments have sparked strong reactions in India. Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, actress-politician Kangana Ranaut, and RSP leaders have condemned his statements, accusing him of "defaming India on foreign soil".
The Congress party has defended Gandhi's statements. Congress MP Rajeev Shukla stated that Gandhi "does not malign the country's image on foreign soil" and that he "always speaks positively about the country". Shukla also accused BJP leaders of criticizing former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru during their foreign trips and said that Gandhi is simply highlighting issues that India is facing.
During his visit to Colombia, Gandhi also interacted with students and discussed various topics, including India's capabilities in engineering and healthcare. He also commented on the success of Indian automobile brands like Bajaj, Hero, and TVS in Colombia, attributing their success to "innovation, not cronyism". He also attempted to explain why cars are heavier than motorcycles, linking it to vehicle safety and electric mobility, but this explanation was mocked by BJP leaders.
A diplomatic passport is issued to Indian government officials and diplomats who travel abroad for official duties. It offers certain privileges, such as visa exemptions and expedited processing at borders. To be eligible for a diplomatic passport, one must be an Indian citizen traveling abroad on official government duty, holding a valid government appointment, and receiving a nomination from the concerned ministry. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issues diplomatic passports, which have a maroon cover and the letter 'D' in the passport number. These passports are valid for up to five years or until the end of the assignment and cannot be used for personal travel. Holders of diplomatic passports are expected to uphold diplomatic norms and etiquette and surrender the passport upon completion of their diplomatic assignment.
