Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Thursday launched a sharp critique against the Narendra Modi-led government, accusing it of deliberately preventing him or an Opposition representative from meeting Russian President Vladimir Putin. Gandhi attributed this move to the ruling dispensation's "insecurity," stating it goes against a long-standing political tradition.
Breaking with Tradition: Gandhi's Allegation
The Congress leader made these remarks to journalists within the Parliament complex, coinciding with the start of Putin's two-day visit to India on December 4 and 5, 2025. This marks the Russian President's first trip to the country since the onset of the Ukraine conflict in February 2022. Gandhi highlighted that it was customary for foreign dignitaries to engage with the Leader of the Opposition, a practice observed during the tenures of former Prime Ministers Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh.
"Normally, there is a tradition that the LOP has meetings with those who come from abroad," Gandhi stated. He alleged a consistent pattern of interference, saying, "But these days, what happens is that when foreign dignitaries come, or when I go abroad, the government suggests to them that they should not meet the LOP." He claimed to receive clear messages during his own foreign travels that host governments had been advised by Indian officials not to engage with him.
The Core Issue: Representing India's Plurality
When questioned about the significance of India-Russia relations, Gandhi emphasized that the Opposition provides a different perspective essential for a complete national representation. "India is also represented by us, not just the government," he asserted. He framed the government's alleged actions as a departure from established norms, directly pointing fingers at Prime Minister Modi and the Ministry of External Affairs for not adhering to this convention.
Pressed on the underlying motive behind such actions, Gandhi offered a succinct and pointed explanation: "It is because of insecurity." This accusation forms the core of his critique, suggesting the government is uncomfortable with alternative viewpoints being presented to international leaders.
Putin's Agenda: Diplomacy and Deals
While the political controversy unfolded, President Putin's itinerary focused on strengthening bilateral ties. His visit, part of the annual summit, includes a private dinner hosted by PM Modi, comprehensive bilateral discussions, and an address to business leaders from both nations.
Officials from the Ministry of External Affairs indicated that key agreements are in the pipeline. A significant focus is the labour mobility agreement, which has been finalized and is in its last stages of internal processing. This pact is designed to facilitate the employment of Indian skilled and semi-skilled professionals in Russian sectors such as construction, healthcare, and hospitality.
Furthermore, the two nations are concentrating on enhancing trade and economic cooperation. Negotiations for a potential free-trade agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union are actively underway, signaling a move towards deeper economic integration.
The juxtaposition of high-stakes diplomacy and domestic political friction underscores the complex layers of India's engagement with a long-standing partner like Russia, even as internal debates about democratic norms and protocol continue to simmer.
