Rahul Gandhi’s Antics Over The Years In Parliament
Rahul Gandhi, a prominent leader of the Indian National Congress, has been a central figure in Indian politics for over a decade. His actions and statements in Parliament have often stirred controversy, showcasing both his assertiveness and occasional missteps. Here, we take a closer look at some notable incidents involving Rahul Gandhi in the past 10 years.
Embracing the Nickname "Pappu"
Over the years, Rahul Gandhi has been mockingly called “Pappu” by his political opponents. Instead of shying away from the nickname, Rahul Gandhi once addressed it directly, saying:
You may call me Pappu, I don't hate you...
This statement demonstrated his attempt to take the criticism in stride and show that he could rise above personal attacks. It was a moment that aimed to humanize him and portray him as someone willing to engage with even the harshest critics.
You May Call Me Pappu, I Don’t Hate You”: Rahul Gandhi Hugs PM Modi
Source: Malayalam Oneindia
The Hug and Wink Incident
Rahul Gandhi’s hug was ‘shock’ to PM Modi: Shiv Sena | Rahul Gandhi’s hug was ‘shock’ to PM Modi: Shiv Sena
Source: Deccanchronicle
One of the most memorable moments in Rahul Gandhi’s parliamentary career occurred during a heated debate on issues like the Rafale deal and the Goods and Services Tax (GST). In a surprising move, he walked across the floor of the Lok Sabha and hugged Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This gesture was intended to display goodwill and suggest that despite their political differences, there could be mutual respect.
However, the impact of the hug was somewhat overshadowed by what followed. After returning to his seat, Rahul Gandhi winked at his fellow Congress members, creating a significant buzz in Parliament and beyond. The wink was interpreted by many as a sign of mockery or a gesture of victory, sparking debates about the sincerity of his actions.
Addressing the Chairman as "Madam Speaker"
During one of his addresses in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi made a notable blunder by referring to the Chairman as “Speaker Madam.” He quickly corrected himself and apologized, but the incident added fuel to the perception that he sometimes relies heavily on prepared speeches and can falter without them.
This slip was seen by critics as evidence of his occasional lack of familiarity with parliamentary protocols, reinforcing the narrative pushed by his opponents that he is not always fully prepared.
The "Narega" Controversy
In another incident, while criticizing the NDA government’s stance on the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MNREGA), Rahul Gandhi referred to it as “Narega” instead of using its full name. The omission of “Mahatma Gandhi” from the program’s title was seen as a significant oversight.
This mistake was seized upon by his political adversaries as an example of his inattention to detail and a lack of respect for historical figures and their contributions.
Conclusion
Rahul Gandhi’s journey in Parliament has been marked by a mix of bold gestures, notable gaffes, and moments of earnestness. His willingness to engage directly with his opponents, as seen in his acceptance of the “Pappu” nickname and his hug to PM Modi, shows a desire to break the mold of traditional political animosity. However, his frequent missteps, such as the “Madam Speaker” blunder and the “Narega” controversy, highlight the challenges he faces in maintaining a consistent and polished public image.
