New Delhi, Feb 23 (IANS): The Congress Monday defended party vice president Rahul Gandhi's leave during the budget session, and said he was going to reflect and chart a course for the future of the party.

Party spokesperson Abhishek Manu Singhvi said the reflection ahead of the forthcoming All India Congress Committee (AICC) meet was of "crucial importance".

"The Congress vice president requested the party he needs some time to reflect on recent events and future course for the party. This introspection is important for the party and in view of the forthcoming AICC session," Singhvi told reporters.

"The AICC session is of crucial importance and Rahul Gandhi will give inputs for it. So he has been given leave of absence after which he will come back to active participation," he said.

A senior Congress leader said the "introspection break" comes after lengthy interactions with party leaders and workers on the defeats faced by the party in recent elections.

"This is the second phase. He will now reflect on it," the leader said.

Singhvi denied speculation of Rahul Gandhi being "angry with party leaders, getting married or quitting politics".

"All attempts to create speculation are denied," he said.

Singhvi also said several leaders take such breaks. "Such retreats are normal, all leaders do it."

"(US President) Barack Obama takes such breaks five times a year. No one says anything when (Delhi Chief Minister Arvind) Kejriwal goes for 'vipasna'. No one questions when (BSP chief) Mayawati does not come to parliament," he said.

"When the prime minister (Narendra Modi) missed almost an entire session of parliament, no one raised any question," he said.

Asked whether his (Rahul Gandhi's) absence during the important budget session was justified, Singhvi said: "Any time in the year is important."

"There will be parliament session, then AICC session, then Bihar election, what time of the year is not important?" he said.