New Delhi: The echoes of Team India’s dominant five-wicket victory over Pakistan in the Asia Cup final still resonate across the nation, but for Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, it’s a resounding silence that’s drawing sharp barbs from the BJP.
In a cheeky political swipe, BJP spokespersons have dubbed Gandhi the “best friend” of Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir, questioning his conspicuous absence from the post-match celebrations.
The taunt erupted after Gandhi skipped any public nod to the triumph, which saw India chase down a tricky target with flair, ending Pakistan’s hopes in a high-stakes showdown. BJP IT cell head Amit Malviya led the charge on social media, posting, “While the country erupts in joy over our boys’ heroic win, Rahul ji stays mum – perhaps whispering strategies to his pal Asim Munir instead?”
The barb ties into ongoing jabs at Gandhi’s perceived soft stance on cross-border issues, amplifying the cricket fever into electoral fodder ahead of key state polls.
Gandhi’s camp dismissed the digs as “desperate distractions,”, with a senior leader retorting, “Real patriots focus on governance, not goalpost-shifting via sports.” Yet, the BJP doubled down, with MP Nishikant Dubey quipping in Parliament corridors, “Rahul’s silence speaks volumes – louder than any victory roar. Is the Nishan-e-Pakistan next on his wishlist?”
This latest salvo highlights the ongoing rivalry between India and Pakistan, which has permeated domestic politics, turning a cricket victory into a crucial test of nationalism. As fans relive those tense overs, the political pitch heats up, with BJP aiming to bowl Gandhi out on loyalty grounds.