The Germany tour marks Rahul Gandhi’s fifth overseas trip in the past six months, coming amid the ongoing Winter Session of Parliament, which concludes on December 19. The timing has drawn sharp criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which accused the Congress leader of neglecting parliamentary responsibilities and labelled him the “Leader of Tourism.”
Congress sources said the visit is aimed at strengthening engagement with the Indian diaspora in Europe and expanding dialogue on global political and social issues. Rahul Gandhi is scheduled to attend an IOC event in Berlin on December 17, where he will address overseas Indians and interact with IOC representatives from several European countries. Senior Congress leaders, including Indian Overseas Congress president Sam Pitroda, are also expected to attend.
The IOC described the visit as part of its broader outreach to Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), focusing on issues concerning democracy, constitutional values, and the Congress party’s organisational expansion abroad. Ausaf Khan, President of IOC Austria, said the programme would provide a platform for discussions on NRI concerns and party strategy.
The BJP, however, has questioned the frequency of Rahul Gandhi’s foreign travel, especially during key parliamentary sessions. Party leaders pointed out that since July, he has visited the United Kingdom, Malaysia, and countries in South America, including Brazil and Colombia, in addition to the current Germany trip.
Rahul Gandhi’s overseas visits have previously triggered political controversy, with the BJP accusing him of making remarks abroad that, it claims, undermine India’s institutions. The Congress has consistently defended these trips, arguing that international engagement is a legitimate part of political outreach and dialogue.
With Parliament in session and major legislative business underway, the visit has added a fresh dimension to the ongoing political contest between the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress, highlighting differing views on the role and responsibilities of national leaders.
