BJP leader questions Gandhi's absence from Kerala student outreach programme

BJP Rajya Sabha member Rajeev Chandrashekhar on Tuesday questioned why Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has not been associated with Chhatron Ki Goonj, the student outreach programme, in Kerala. The criticism appeared to be part of broader partisan attacks on Gandhi's political record and approach.

Chandrashekhar characterized Gandhi as a "preeminent fraudster" in Indian politics, using sharp language to attack the Congress leader's public standing. The remarks underscore the intensifying political rhetoric between the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress party ahead of upcoming electoral contests.

Chhatron Ki Goonj, an initiative focused on student engagement and political participation, has been a platform for political leaders to connect with younger voters. Chandrashekhar's comments suggest the BJP views Gandhi's absence from such programmes in Kerala as a political vulnerability for the Congress.

The attack forms part of the ongoing political discourse between national parties as they vie for influence in key states. Gandhi has been actively campaigning across various regions, though his participation in specific programmes varies by location and political strategy.