Twitter reacts to Rahul Gandhi's sabbatical

#WhereIsRahul and #RahulOnLeave became the top trends on Twitter since yesterday

Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi’s decision yesterday to go on leave to "introspect” created ripples in political circles and the news media. The Gandhi scion's surprise move comes barely weeks after the Congress Party was wiped out in the Delhi Assembly elections, failing to win even one seat in the 70-strong House. More importantly, it comes just days before the Union Budget 2015, which is being touted as a make-or-break moment for the Indian economy, is due to be presented.

Gandhi already has a reputation for disappearing from the public stage during critical moments for the party -- he addressed only four public meetings during the Delhi campaign, and his latest sabbatical has already raised eyebrows, and questions, over its intent and timing.  

The strongest reactions, however, were reserved for Twitter where multiple hashtags about the move sprung up almost immediately like so many weeds. Not surprisingly, the funny bone of the Twitterati was on full display at this seeming abdication of responsibility by the Congress 'Princeling'. 

#WhereIsRahul even became a global trend, whlle #RahulonLeave had its own moment in the sun. Here’s a glimpse of the Twitterati at their sarcastic best: