📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs
Politics
Union Minister Rijiju retorts to Rahul Gandhi copycat claim, says swimming is child's play
✍️ Bhaskar English
🗓 24 Aug 2026, 05:37 AM
👁 21
Rijiju responded to a criticism that he mimics Rahul Gandhi, asserting that swimming is easy for him and shared a video on social media.
Union Minister Rijiju shot back at a recent jibe suggesting he was copying opposition leader Rahul Gandhi. In a brief statement, the minister dismissed the comparison, remarking that swimming is "child's play" for him. To underline his point, Rijiju posted a short video of himself swimming on his social media accounts, inviting supporters to view his athletic side.
The comment came after political opponents hinted that Rijiju was emulating Gandhi's public style. Rijiju's response was swift, focusing on his personal fitness routine rather than engaging in a broader political debate. The video, which shows him swimming laps, was accompanied by a caption emphasizing his confidence in the sport.
Political analysts note that such exchanges are common in the heated pre‑election atmosphere, where leaders often use personal anecdotes to deflect criticism. Rijiju's choice to highlight his swimming skills reflects a strategy to portray vigor and relatability.
The minister's social media post quickly garnered attention, with netizens commenting on both his athleticism and the tone of his rebuttal. No further statements have been issued as of now.
The comment came after political opponents hinted that Rijiju was emulating Gandhi's public style. Rijiju's response was swift, focusing on his personal fitness routine rather than engaging in a broader political debate. The video, which shows him swimming laps, was accompanied by a caption emphasizing his confidence in the sport.
Political analysts note that such exchanges are common in the heated pre‑election atmosphere, where leaders often use personal anecdotes to deflect criticism. Rijiju's choice to highlight his swimming skills reflects a strategy to portray vigor and relatability.
The minister's social media post quickly garnered attention, with netizens commenting on both his athleticism and the tone of his rebuttal. No further statements have been issued as of now.