Bhubaneswar, Feb. 4 -- A sharp exchange of words took place on Wednesday between Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi and Union Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh Bittu outside the Parliament complex during protests by opposition MPs.

As several Congress MPs continued their demonstration near the Makar Dwar entrance following disruptions in the Lok Sabha, Gandhi was heard directing a remark at Bittu, who was walking past the group. Gandhi said, "Here is a traitor walking right by. Look at the face."

In footage released by media outlets, Gandhi then extended his hand toward Bittu and added, "Hello, brother, my traitor friend. Don't worry, you will come back (to Congress)."

However, Bittu declined the handshake an...