New Delhi: A lighthearted comment by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday has sparked a fresh discussion in Parliament after his colleague Renuka Chowdhury brought a rescued stray dog inside the premises.
During an informal interaction with reporters, Gandhi remarked, “Pets are not allowed outside but inside,” pointing toward the Parliament House. The remark came amid criticism from some ruling party members over Chowdhury’s decision to bring the animal into the building.
Congress vs BJP Banter
BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari responded on X, accusing Gandhi of drawing an unusual comparison. “Rahul Gandhi is comparing his own Congressmen, and Opposition leaders to Dog! This is how Parivarvadi treat temple of democracy,” he wrote.
Gandhi appeared unfazed, noting with a touch of humor, “I guess these are the things India is discussing these days,” referring to the debate over pets in a space usually reserved for legislative business.
Renuka Chowdhury Shares Video with Pets
The controversy began on Monday when Rajya Sabha MP Renuka Chowdhury drove a rescued stray into Parliament. She later posted a video on social media showing her spending time with her pets.
“Some moments heal you without saying a word — mine have paws. Each of these faces carries a story of love, rescue, trust, and pure joy. Life feels fuller, softer, kinder when I’m with them,” Chowdhury wrote on X, sharing glimpses of her interaction with the animals.
While the episode has drawn both criticism and amusement, it has also highlighted the personal side of lawmakers, with Gandhi and Chowdhury defending the gesture as an expression of compassion and care for animals.
Parliament authorities have not yet commented on whether any formal action will be taken regarding the entry of pets inside the premises.
