Sukhu defends Rahul Gandhi, says his truth causes discomfort to rivals

Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu defended Rahul Gandhi, calling him an effective LoP whose truths trouble opponents. Gandhi recently called PM Modi and Amit Shah 'traitors'. Sukhu also raised alarms over climate change in his state.

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Thursday came out in defence of Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, stating that the latter is effectively fulfilling his role as the Leader of the Opposition by relentlessly raising crucial public issues. Downplaying the criticism aimed at the Congress leader, CM Sukhu asserted that Gandhi's statements cause deep discomfort to political opponents because he consistently speaks the truth.

Speaking to reporters, CM said, "Rahul Gandhi, as Leader of the Opposition, is relentlessly raising issues. When he speaks the truth, it causes discomfort and troubles them."

Gandhi's Criticism of Government

CM's remarks came amid continued political sparring over Rahul Gandhi's recent criticism of the government, where the Congress leader warned of an "economic storm" due to global tensions and questioned the Prime Minister's handling of foreign policy and economic risks. Rahul Gandhi also criticised the Prime Minister's recent five-nation visit, including a widely discussed "Melody moment" during which PM Modi gifted Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni a packet of "Melody" toffees during their meeting in Rome.

Re-invoking his "traitor" jibe against PM Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, he said he would not apologise for his remarks. "Listen up, RSS folks. I will never apologise, and I say it again: Narendra Modi and Amit Shah are traitors, because they have attacked the Constitution. I am not afraid of you people," Gandhi asserted.

Climate Change Crisis in Himachal

Meanwhile, CM Sukhu also highlighted that climate change and rising temperatures have caused losses of up to Rs 20,000 crore in the state over the last three years, prompting central and local scientific studies to tackle the crisis. He said, "Climate change has increased. The temperature has risen, and we are dealing with this situation. I had earlier spoken to the Home Minister, who formed a team from IIT and scientists to study it. Our scientists are also studying. Today there is extreme heat due to rising temperatures the state has suffered losses of about Rs 15-20,000 crore over the past three years. We must all fight this situation together." (ANI)

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