📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs
Politics
Rijiju says Rahul Gandhi needs training to swim in Arunachal rivers
✍️ The Hindu
🗓 23 Aug 2026, 05:43 PM
👁 28
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju remarked that swimming in Arunachal’s rivers is a child's play for him and suggested Rahul Gandhi requires training.
Union Minister of State for Defence Kiren Rijiju commented that navigating the swift streams of Arunachal Pradesh is a simple task for him, describing it as "child's play." He added that Rahul Gandhi would need proper training before attempting such a swim. The remarks were made during a recent press interaction where Rijiju was asked about his recent activities in the northeastern state.
Rijiju’s statement highlighted the challenging terrain of Arunachal’s rivers, which are known for strong currents and rugged banks. By contrasting his own familiarity with the waterways against Rahul Gandhi’s presumed lack of experience, the minister underscored the physical demands of the region.
The comment, reported by The Hindu, has drawn attention on social media, with observers noting the political undertone of the comparison. While no official response from Rahul Gandhi’s office has been recorded, the exchange adds another layer to the ongoing political discourse between the ruling party and opposition leaders.
Analysts view such remarks as part of broader political posturing ahead of upcoming electoral contests, where leaders often use personal anecdotes to underscore broader narratives about competence and regional familiarity.
Rijiju’s statement highlighted the challenging terrain of Arunachal’s rivers, which are known for strong currents and rugged banks. By contrasting his own familiarity with the waterways against Rahul Gandhi’s presumed lack of experience, the minister underscored the physical demands of the region.
The comment, reported by The Hindu, has drawn attention on social media, with observers noting the political undertone of the comparison. While no official response from Rahul Gandhi’s office has been recorded, the exchange adds another layer to the ongoing political discourse between the ruling party and opposition leaders.
Analysts view such remarks as part of broader political posturing ahead of upcoming electoral contests, where leaders often use personal anecdotes to underscore broader narratives about competence and regional familiarity.