The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has strongly criticized Rahul Gandhi, a leading figure in the Indian National Congress, for his recent remarks concerning Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former US President Donald Trump. Gandhi's comments, in which he suggested that Modi is "frightened of Trump," have ignited a political firestorm, with the BJP accusing Gandhi of undermining national interests and displaying a lack of trust in India's leadership.
Gandhi's criticism stems from Trump's recent claim that Modi had assured him India would halt its imports of Russian oil. Reacting to Trump's statement, Gandhi took to social media, stating, "PM Modi is frightened of Trump". He then listed a series of actions, including allegedly allowing Trump to dictate that India would not buy Russian oil, continuing to send congratulatory messages despite "repeated snubs", the cancellation of the Finance Minister's visit to America, and the skipping of Sharm el-Sheikh, as evidence. Gandhi also revived his earlier criticism that Modi did not contradict Trump’s repeated claims of brokering a ceasefire between India and Pakistan.
The BJP has responded sharply, accusing Gandhi of echoing foreign propaganda and insulting the aspirations and achievements of the Indian people. BJP leaders have asserted that Gandhi's remarks demonstrate a "deep-rooted inferiority complex" and a willingness to undermine India's growth and standing on the world stage. Some BJP figures have gone so far as to say that Gandhi "wears ignorance like a badge of honour" and is "blind to India's rise".
This is not the first time Gandhi has faced criticism for his comments regarding Trump and their potential impact on India. Previously, the BJP rebuked Gandhi for echoing Trump's "dead economy" jibe at India. At that time, BJP leaders argued that Gandhi was parroting foreign propaganda and that his remarks were a "shameful insult" to hardworking Indians.
The Congress party has attempted to defend Gandhi's position, with some leaders pointing to the strength of the Indian economy and cautioning against caving into unreasonable demands. However, other voices within the opposition have taken a different tack, criticizing Trump's claims as arrogant and highlighting India's position as a bright spot in the global economy.
The exchange highlights the ongoing political tensions between the BJP and the Congress party, particularly regarding foreign policy and national security. The BJP has consistently sought to portray Gandhi as being out of touch with India's progress and too willing to criticize the country on the international stage. Conversely, Gandhi and the Congress party have accused Modi and the BJP of compromising India's sovereignty and dignity in their dealings with foreign powers.
