Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi has said that India is facing a wholesale attack on its democratic system, remarks made to students at EIA University in Envigado, Colombia, that drew sharp criticism from the BJP.

“The single biggest risk is the attack on democracy that is taking place in India,” Gandhi said. He argued that India’s strength lies in its diversity of religions, traditions and languages, which needs space to flourish, and only democracy can provide that space.

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju asked Gandhi to be mindful on foreign soil. “Within India it’s fine, but in a foreign country, one must be mindful as our nation’s image is at stake,” Rijiju said.

BJP spokesperson CR Kesavan called it a toxic anti-India rant on foreign soil. Congress leader KC Venugopal defended Gandhi, saying he spoke the truth. Gandhi also hailed Indian brands Bajaj, Hero and TVS for their success in Colombia.

Gandhi is on a visit to Colombia. He praised Indian two-wheeler brands for their success in the country. He said Indian firms can win with innovation, not cronyism.