Germany expresses Concerns over Suspension of Rahul Gandhi’s Parliamentary Mandate

New Delhi (India), March 30, 2023: Germany and the United States have voiced their concerns over the suspension of Indian opposition politician Rahul Gandhi’s parliamentary mandate following his conviction in a defamation case.

Germany’s foreign ministry spokesperson emphasized the need for judicial independence and democratic principles to be upheld in Gandhi’s case, while the US Department of State reiterated its commitment to democratic values, including freedom of expression.

Gandhi was sentenced to two years’ imprisonment in the 2019 defamation case filed by a BJP MLA, resulting in his disqualification from the Lok Sabha. The sentence has been suspended for 30 days, during which Gandhi can appeal the verdict.

The Congress party alleged that he was deliberately disqualified, while the BJP called him a “habitual loose cannon.” The international attention on the case reflects growing concerns over the state of democracy in India.