New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and opposition leader Rahul Gandhi shared a rare friendly moment during an event on Saturday, which caught the attention of many. This interaction took place at a gathering that paid tribute to social reformer Jyotirao Phule.
It’s unusual for Rahul Gandhi to join ministers and other officials, like Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, at such events. However, he was present this time and greeted the Prime Minister alongside others as they awaited Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan and President Droupadi Murmu.
During this brief encounter, Modi appeared to ask Rahul a question, and they engaged in a short conversation. Speculation arose on social media, with some suggesting that Modi inquired about the health of Rahul’s mother, Sonia Gandhi, who was recently hospitalized. However, no official confirmation has been provided about the details of their chat.
In the past, Rahul has skipped similar events and has faced criticism from the BJP for not showing enough respect to state functions and dignitaries. Conversely, the Congress party has accused the government of not giving proper acknowledgment to the leader of the opposition.
Regardless, their moment of camaraderie sparked significant discussion among political circles. In related news, the government has announced a two-year program leading up to the 200th birth anniversary of Jyotirao Phule, set to begin on April 11, 2026. A high-level committee headed by the Prime Minister will oversee the nationwide celebrations that will run until April 11, 2028.
