NEW DELHI: A group of medical professionals has called on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to publicly apologize for his recent remarks about US President Joe Biden’s cognitive abilities. The National Medicos Organisation (NMO) Bharat, led by CB Tripathi, expressed concern that such comments reinforce harmful stereotypes about aging and cognitive health. In a letter addressed to Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi’s mother, the NMO criticized his remarks as insensitive and damaging to public discourse.
During a rally in Amravati, Maharashtra, on November 16, Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, remarked that Prime Minister Narendra Modi appeared to be suffering from “memory loss,” comparing him to the “former President” of the United States, referring to Joe Biden. The NMO-Bharat expressed deep dismay at these comments, particularly given the age and seniority of President Biden, and emphasized the importance of respecting elders, a value deeply rooted in Indian culture.
Tripathi’s letter to Sonia Gandhi pointed out that Rahul Gandhi’s comments not only undermined a foreign leader but also perpetuated ageist views, affecting perceptions of elderly people in India. He stated that such remarks could harm the understanding and treatment of cognitive health issues and misinform the public. The NMO also pointed out the impact these comments could have on the broader narrative around aging and health in society.
The NMO urged Rahul Gandhi to reflect on his words and issue a public apology for the remarks. The medical community emphasized that political dialogue should be inclusive and respectful, seeking to uplift and unite rather than mock or stigmatize individuals based on age or health. They also reminded Sonia Gandhi of her personal experience with health-related rumors, suggesting that she would understand the negative effects of such statements.
