BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla accused Rahul Gandhi of insensitivity, stating, "The country is in mourning, and the Leader of the Opposition is partying. For him, LoP means Leader of Partying. Vacationing is more important for him, especially when he calls Dr. Manmohan Singh a father figure."
Similarly, BJP leader Amit Malviya criticized Gandhi's decision to travel during this period, alleging that he had "exploited" Singh's death for political purposes. Malviya remarked, "While the country is mourning Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh’s demise, Rahul Gandhi has flown to Vietnam to ring in the New Year."
In response, Congress leader Manickam Tagore dismissed the BJP's criticism as a diversionary tactic, questioning the ruling party's focus on Gandhi's personal travel plans. Tagore stated, "When will the BJP stop its diversionary politics? They should focus on governance rather than personal attacks."
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar also faced criticism for his overseas trip during the mourning period. In defense, Shivakumar stated that while government functions would observe the mourning, individual celebrations could not be stopped. He emphasized, "We can't stop individual celebrations."
The Congress party had earlier canceled a scheduled convention in Belagavi following Singh's demise, demonstrating respect for the national mourning.