Rahul Gandhi should apologise for defaming Sushma Swaraj, says Nitin Gadkari

"I'm hoping that seemingly immature statement made is taken back. Rahul Gandhi must apologize to the country and Sushma Swaraj"

Written by: Mohammed Uzair Shaikh

Published: August 3, 2015, 12:59 PM IST

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https://www.india.com/news/india/rahul-gandhi-should-apologise-for-defaming-sushma-swaraj-says-nitin-gadkari-488351/ Copy

New Delhi, August 3: BJP on Monday lashed out at the Rahul Gandhi for his statement against External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj. Union Minster Nitin Gadkari demanded an apology from the Congress Vice President for the allegations of crime he made against Swaraj. Referring to Gandhi’s statement as childish, Gadkari said “I’m hoping that seemingly immature statement made is taken back. Rahul Gandhi must apologize to the country and Sushma Swaraj for his immature statement.”

Gadkari’s statements came in the backdrop of a clarification attempt made by the Sushma Swaraj earlier in the day. Amid uproar created by the opposition, External Affairs Minister said in the Rajya Sabha today, “I did not request the UK government to arrange travel papers for Lalit Modi nor did I gave any thing in writing.” However, the house was adjourned following the ruckus created over her statements.

Rahul Gandhi had lambasted the BJP government for shielding its tainted ministers. Criticising Swaraj for helping fugitive Lalit Modi, he said “It is a criminal act and thus we demand an immediate resignation.” The BJP top brass is evidently irked by the accusation. Threatening legal action, Gadkari said “Rahul Gandhi’s statements are unfortunate. This is an act of defamation against the External Affairs Ministry. We would be forced to file a defamatory complain again him,” he added. (ALSO READ: Rahul Gandhi: No discussion until Sushma Swaraj steps down)

The BJP leader has demanded the Congress President Sonia Gandhi to condemn the statements made by Rahul Gandhi. “Sonia Gandhi is a senior leader. At least she should apologise for the immature comments of his son,” Gadkari added.

Earlier in the day, amidst uproar in the Rajya Sabha, Sushma Swaraj made attempts to clarify the allegations her role in the Lalit Modi visa row. She said “I never spoke to the the UK ministry or gave any thing in writing.” However, the house was adjourned following the ruckus created over her statements.