Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has voiced support for the BJP’s request for transparency regarding the financing of Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi’s overseas journeys and the undisclosed funds used for this purpose. Rijiju expressed concerns over the lack of clarity surrounding some of Rahul Gandhi’s foreign visits, emphasizing the importance of adhering to Parliamentary protocols, which mandate informing the Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha Secretariat three weeks prior to any foreign travel by a Member of Parliament. The Minister highlighted the seriousness of the questions raised, particularly in light of the apparent discrepancy between Rahul Gandhi’s declared income and the substantial expenses incurred during his numerous foreign trips over the past two decades.
Rijiju’s statements follow a recent controversy concerning the financial aspects of Rahul Gandhi’s foreign tours, with BJP MP Sambit Patra alleging a significant disparity between the Congress MP’s reported income of Rs 11 crores and the approximately Rs 60 crore spent on 54 foreign trips to various destinations, including Europe and the Middle-East. The Minister emphasized that if the expenses during Rahul Gandhi’s foreign visits surpass his disclosed earnings in the election affidavit, it raises concerns for the Income Tax department, regardless of whether the income is declared or undisclosed. Rijiju underscored the need for the Congress party to address these discrepancies and provide clarifications on the matter.
Responding to queries about the secrecy surrounding some of Rahul Gandhi’s foreign excursions, Rijiju underscored the obligation of all Parliamentarians to adhere to established procedures and regulations. He emphasized the importance of transparency in disclosing the details of foreign trips, regardless of the destination or purpose, to ensure accountability and compliance with regulations. Notably, the recent controversy surrounding Rahul Gandhi’s trip to Oman earlier this month, which reportedly lacked proper communication with the CRPF, has raised further concerns and scrutiny.
