Rahul flags dissent on CIC appointments; BJP attacks his Germany trip

New Delhi, Dec 10: The Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday for nearly two hours to discuss key appointments to the Central Information Commission (CIC).

The Times of India reported that the meeting focused on selecting the next Chief Information Commissioner, eight Information Commissioners, and a Vigilance Commissioner for the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC).

According to ANI, Gandhi submitted a dissent note on the proposed selections.

The political temperature rose further as news surfaced about Rahul Gandhi’s planned visit to Berlin between December 15 and 20, even as the Parliament’s winter session continues until December 19.

The BJP slammed the Congress leader, with spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla calling him “Videsh Nayak” and accusing him of prioritising foreign travel over his duties in Parliament.

Poonawalla, in a post on X, said Gandhi had similarly travelled abroad during the Bihar elections and even gone on a “jungle safari”, alleging a pattern of absence during crucial political moments.

Rahul Gandhi is expected to attend a major Indian Overseas Congress (IOC) gathering in Berlin on December 17, where IOC leaders from across Europe will convene.

IOC Austria president Ausaf Khan announced that Gandhi will engage with the Indian diaspora and discuss strengthening the Congress’ international outreach, NRI issues, and organisational strategies.

IOC UK General Secretary Vikram Duhan added that the visit will provide a platform for dialogue on India’s global role and facilitate exchanges with German lawmakers and diaspora representatives, reports The Times of India.