Social Democratic Party Of India expresses profound disappointment and unequivocal condemnation of Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra for their inexplicable absence during the Lok Sabha debate and proceedings on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025, a legislation of immense significance to India’s Muslim community and the nation at large. Their failure to engage in this critical discussion not only undermines their roles as prominent leaders of the Indian National Congress but also raises serious questions about their commitment to the constituencies they represent and the principles they claim to uphold.

Rahul Gandhi’s decision to skip the debate, only to appear, moments before voting, is an affront to the gravity of the issue and the expectations of the Indian public. As a former MP of Wayanad, a constituency with a substantial Muslim population, and a self-proclaimed champion of minority rights, his absence from this pivotal discussion is nothing short of a betrayal. What message does this send to the people of Wayanad, who once placed their trust in him, or to the millions of Muslims across India who look to the opposition for a robust defense of their interests? Was this a deliberate act of disengagement, or does it reflect a deeper indifference to the responsibilities of parliamentary leadership? We demand answers.

Equally troubling is Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s absence from the Lok Sabha during this crucial debate. As the newly elected MP from Wayanad, where nearly half the population is Muslim, her failure to participate in a discussion directly impacting her constituents is indefensible. This was an opportunity for Priyanka to demonstrate her dedication to the people who elected her and to establish herself as a credible voice in Parliament. Instead, her non-attendance casts doubt on her willingness to confront challenging issues head-on. Does her absence signal a lack of preparedness or a reluctance to engage with matters of such profound consequence?

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 is not a trivial piece of legislation; it touches on the rights, heritage, and welfare of India’s 20 crore Muslims. The INC’s opposition to the bill, while notable, rings hollow when its most prominent leaders fail to show up to defend their stance. The absence of Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi during this debate—coupled with Rahul’s casual reappearance for the vote—smacks of political opportunism and a lack of seriousness that the Indian public cannot and should not tolerate. Their actions, or lack thereof, have left their party’s supporters disillusioned and provided their detractors with ample fodder to question the Congress’s sincerity.

We call upon Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi to explain their absence and justify their conduct to the people of India, particularly those in Wayanad and other constituencies that rely on their leadership. Silence is not an option; accountability is non-negotiable. Until such clarity is provided, their credibility as representatives of the people remains under a cloud of suspicion.

The people of India deserve leaders who show up, speak up, and stand up for what they believe in—especially when it matters most. Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi’s absence during the Waqf (Amendment) Bill debate is a stark reminder of what happens when those entrusted with power choose convenience over conviction.

Elyas Muhammad Tumbe
National General Secretary