Udit Raj Defends Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Traitor Friend’ Remark Against Ravneet Singh Bittu

New Delhi: The political controversy over Rahul Gandhi’s remark calling BJP MP Ravneet Singh Bittu a “traitor friend” continues to make headlines. Amidst BJP’s criticism, Congress leader Udit Raj has come to Gandhi’s defense, asserting that the statement was made in jest and carried no ill intent.

Udit Raj said, “Rahul Gandhi has a pure heart. He spoke in a joking manner, but the BJP has blown it out of proportion and elevated Ravneet Singh Bittu unnecessarily.” He further questioned why Bittu should feel offended, adding, “It was the Congress party that gave political prominence to his entire family. So, in reality, he committed a betrayal.”

The Incident

The episode unfolded on the steps of the Parliament House, where Rahul Gandhi was protesting with suspended MPs. As Ravneet Singh Bittu walked by, Gandhi referred to him as “my traitor friend,” saying, “Don’t worry, I will be back.” Gandhi also attempted to shake hands with Bittu, but the BJP MP refused and labeled him an “enemy of the nation,” walking inside the Parliament. Gandhi followed him soon after.

Congress leader Bhai Jagatap supported Gandhi’s explanation, noting that Bittu rose to political prominence under the Congress banner, being elected three times on Congress tickets. “Before that, who knew him? Our relationships were cordial, and we often used familiar terms for each other. Even if Rahul said ‘my traitor friend,’ calling him a traitor was only in jest,” Jagatap explained.

The incident has sparked debate over political rhetoric and the fine line between humor and offense in parliamentary discourse.