Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan hit out at Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of defaming India’s democratic institutions during his foreign visit. Pradhan’s strong remarks came after Gandhi reportedly questioned the credibility of the Election Commission of India while abroad.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the senior BJP leader said: “Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi has once again questioned the credibility of our Election Commission from a foreign land. It is very unfortunate that whenever Rahul Gandhi is abroad, he does not miss sharing his hateful thoughts towards India and India's democratic systems...”

Pradhan’s statement is part of the BJP's ongoing criticism of Gandhi, who has previously raised concerns over institutional integrity, press freedom, and democratic functioning during international events. The BJP sees such comments as damaging to India’s global image.

The Election Commission, currently overseeing the multi-phase Lok Sabha elections, has found itself at the centre of political debate. Opposition parties, including the Congress, have accused it of alleged bias and lapses, while the BJP has firmly defended the commission’s neutrality and integrity.