Union Minister Kiren Rijiju recently released a video of himself swimming in a river located in Arunachal Pradesh, his home state. In the video, he outlined various techniques individuals should employ to navigate the strong currents typical of the region’s rivers. Rijiju self-identified as a “khiladi,” a term used in Hindi that means “player,” suggesting a sense of expertise in dealing with such conditions.

Congress’s Mocking Response

In a contrasting move, the Indian National Congress shared a video on X, formerly known as Twitter, depicting the Parliament premises in New Delhi engulfed in water after heavy rainfall on August 25, 2026. The footage shows the road in front of Parliament severely flooded, following a deluge that impacted various parts of the national capital. Taking to social media, Congress tagged Rijiju and playfully queried for another video showcasing his “skills,” underlining the disconnect between the minister’s claims and the state of infrastructure in Delhi.

This social media exchange highlights ongoing tensions between the ruling party and the opposition. Congress did not hold back in their satirical jab, tweeting: “Yahan ka khiladi Kiren Rijiju, one more reel please.” This remark not only aimed to ridicule Rijiju’s earlier claims but also sought to draw attention to the flooding issue plaguing the capital, suggesting that the minister should focus on more pressing matters.

The tweet sparked widespread attention and discussion online, with numerous users engaging in the dialogue surrounding the contrasting images of Rijiju imbibing in a river while floodwaters were disrupting daily life in the capital. The Congress party’s posts aimed to leverage this moment to challenge the effectiveness of the current government in handling urban infrastructure during adverse weather conditions.

The Context of Monsoon Rainfall in Delhi

Delhi has been prone to severe flooding during the monsoon season, which generally lasts from June to September. Heavy rains lead to waterlogging in various areas, causing difficulties in transportation and impacting daily activities for residents. The recent rainfall on August 25 exacerbated these existing challenges, prompting public outcry regarding the city’s preparedness for natural calamities.

Opposition parties, including Congress, have often capitalised on such events to highlight concerns about the government’s inability to manage urban planning adequately. This recurring issue continues to amplify discussions on infrastructure improvement measures and the need for sustainable solutions to combat flooding in urban areas like Delhi. The Congress party’s recent action aligns with these ongoing advocacy efforts, aiming to hold ministers accountable for their responsibilities.

Amidst this context, Rijiju’s swimming video—meant to showcase resilience—has become a focal point for criticism. The juxtaposition of his portrayal with the realities faced by residents of Delhi contributes to the broader narrative about governance and the impact of climate change on urban centres. Events such as these serve to remind both the public and officials of the pressing need for comprehensive disaster management strategies.

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