NEW DELHI: BJP MP Varun Gandhi has declined an invitation to speak at Oxford University on the state of the Indian democracy, saying he feels it is better to raise critical issues “within India and not on an international forum”, reports Mohua Chatterjee.
“It is a priority to participate in the national debate both within Parliament and through other fora in a constant and constructive manner. However, such comment must be offered within India to Indian policymakers. I see no merit or integrity in vocalising internal challenges in an international forum,” he said.
By declining the invitation, Varun has taken a stand directly opposite to that of his cousin Rahul Gandhi, who recently made critical remarks on Indian democracy at Cambridge University. BJP has mounted a sharp attack on Rahul for defaming India abroad.