Doctors demand Rahul Gandhi apologize for ‘derogatory’ remarks against Joe Biden

A group of medical professionals has demanded a public apology from Congressman Rahul Gandhi for his alleged comments about US President Joe Biden’s cognitive abilities.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi at the party headquarters in New Delhi on November 21, 2024. (AFP)

In a letter to former Congress MP and mother of Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, All India President of National Medicos Organization Bharat (NMO-Bharat) CB Tripathi said that Rahul Gandhi’s comments indicate a “lack of sensitivity and harmful stereotypes about aging and maintaining cognitive health.” .”

“We write this letter as concerned members of the medical fraternity and are deeply disturbed by the recent statements made by Mr. Rahul Gandhi that appeared to disparage the cognitive abilities of the President of the United States, Joe Biden,” PTI quoted the letter as saying.

“It is disappointing to see Rahul Gandhi making such rude comments about a foreign head of state who is much older and older than him. This goes against our Indian ethos of respecting elders.”

At an election rally in Amravati area of Maharashtra on November 16, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi appeared to be suffering from “memory loss” just like the “former President” of the US, apparently referring to Biden outgoing President of the United States of America.

The medics said such comments were also “unbecoming” for an opposition leader and suggested a “lack of understanding and sensitivity”.

They added that such statements risk perpetuating misinformation and potentially influencing public perception in ways that could negatively impact the understanding and treatment of actual patients.

“Mr. Rahul Gandhi’s comments also stray into anti-age territory and perpetuate harmful stereotypes about aging and cognitive health. This is disrespectful not only to the individuals concerned, but also to countless seniors in India who, despite health problems, make meaningful contributions contribute to society,” the doctors added.

They also said that Sonia Gandhi has also been a victim of such health-related rumours, misinformation and allegations.

“They know how damaging such narratives can be, not only for the people they target, but also for the broader discourse in society. “This gives us the confidence that you of all people can understand why your son’s comments were both unfortunate and misguided,” the letter read.