Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi on Monday said he will be travelling to Europe for a few days and wished the people a Happy New Year.
"I will be travelling to Europe for a few days. A very Happy New Year to everyone. Hope the new year brings much joy and happiness to you and everyone close to you!" Gandhi tweeted.
Party sources said it was the first time that Gandhi has provided information about his foreign travel on Twitter.
They said Gandhi providing information about his travel plans was a move to silence criticism from political parties which have in the past raised questions about his visits.
The BJP had raised questions about the timing and purpose of Gandhi's visit to the US in September.
Gandhi had earlier this year taken 'leave of absence' of about nearly two months to reflect on the future course of the party. The leave had coincided with the budget session of parliament and drew sarcastic remarks from the BJP.
Sources said Gandhi has travelled abroad around the time of new year on some occasions in the past also.