Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi took a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over 'handing out toffee in Italy' at a time when India was facing an 'economic storm'.
His remarks came after PM Modi gifted 'Melody' toffees to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni during his visit to Italy, bringing back the 'Melodi' phrase linked to the two leaders that had gained attention on social media.
Rahul Gandhi slammed Modi over the 'Melodi' moment, saying an 'economic storm is raging' in the country while the prime minister was 'busy handing out toffee in Italy'.
He added, 'Farmers, youth, women, laborers, and small traders are all in tears - the PM is laughing and making reels, while the BJP folks are clapping along. This isn't leadership, it's a farce.'
Rahul Gandhi warned of an economic crisis while addressing a 'Bahujan Swabhiman Sabha' in Raebareli, his parliamentary constituency. He referred to Modi's recent appeal asking people to reduce fuel use, limit gold purchases and avoid foreign travel, claiming it pointed towards a possible sharp rise in the cost of essential goods.
He said, 'Before leaving India and before going to Italy to meet Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Prime Minister Narendra Modi told the people of India that an economic storm was coming. He said people should use less petrol, not buy gold, spend less and avoid travelling abroad. But just a day later, Narendra Modi boarded an aircraft worth ₹3,000–4,000 crore and went to Italy carrying toffees in his pocket, where he offered Melody toffee to the Prime Minister there.'
