Indian Overseas Congress chief Sam Pitroda has assured that he will investigate an allegation made by India Today correspondent Rohit Sharma, who claimed he was assaulted by Rahul Gandhi’s team in Dallas. The incident reportedly occurred when Sharma asked Pitroda whether Gandhi would address the issue of attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh during his meeting with US lawmakers.
Sharma alleged that his mobile phone was snatched by a member of Gandhi’s advance team, and he was asked to delete the interview. In response, Pitroda, speaking to India Today’s Rajdeep Sardesai, expressed disapproval of the treatment, stating, “I don’t approve of anybody being mishandled” and emphasized his support for a “free press.”
Pitroda added, “I will look into it. I stand for respect and dignity towards journalists and will ensure the matter is thoroughly investigated.”
He also noted that he had a cordial conversation with Rohit Sharma earlier that day and wished the journalist had contacted him before going public with the allegations.
Pitroda further clarified that during Rahul Gandhi’s US visit, discussions primarily focused on issues like democracy, unemployment, and US-India relations. He denied that Gandhi raised the issue of Bangladeshi Hindus in his talks with US lawmakers.
Pitroda reaffirmed his commitment to free press and mutual respect in all professional engagements.
