Following a recent escalation in tensions between India and Pakistan, marked by cross-border missile and drone strikes and a subsequent ceasefire, the Indian political landscape is witnessing a flurry of activity. The Congress party is actively questioning the circumstances surrounding the ceasefire, particularly the role of the United States, while leaders of opposition are calling for a special session of Parliament to address the situation.
The ceasefire, which brought an immediate halt to military actions by land, air, and sea, was reportedly brokered with initial announcements emanating from Washington D.C. before confirmations from New Delhi and Islamabad. This has raised eyebrows within the Congress, with questions being asked about potential third-party intervention and the reopening of diplomatic channels with Pakistan. Jairam Ramesh, Congress general secretary, has explicitly questioned whether New Delhi has opened doors to third-party mediation.
Adding to the controversy, former US President Donald Trump claimed that the ceasefire agreement was reached after talks mediated by the United States. He also offered to mediate between India and Pakistan on the Kashmir issue, a move that has been met with skepticism and criticism from the Congress party. Congress MP Manish Tewari emphasized the need to "educate" Trump on the Kashmir issue, stating that it is not a centuries-old conflict. Another Congress leader, Kapil Sibal, has also slammed Trump's remarks and raised questions over what he termed as "misinformation". The Congress party is wary of any "internationalization" of the Kashmir issue. Sachin Pilot, a senior Congress leader, stated that the internationalization of Kashmir is not acceptable.
In light of these developments, Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, and Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha, have both written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to convene a special session of Parliament. They seek a thorough discussion on the Pahalgam terror attack, Operation Sindoor, and the US-announced ceasefire. Gandhi emphasized the need for the people and their representatives to discuss these critical issues. The opposition believes that a special session of both Houses of Parliament should be convened, where the representatives of the people can show their unity and determination.
The demand for a special session also saw support from other parties. Senior Congress leader Kapil Sibal praised the Indian armed forces and reiterated his demand for a special session of Parliament to inform the nation about how the recent India-Pakistan conflict was de-escalated. Manish Tewari, another Congress MP, called for a special session of Parliament to address the implications of what the US termed a "US-brokered ceasefire".
The Congress has also demanded an all-party meeting chaired by the Prime Minister to discuss the situation. Jairam Ramesh stated that the Congress reiterates its demand for an all-party meet chaired by the PM and for a special session of Parliament for a full discussion on Pahalgam, Operation Sindoor, and the ceasefire announcements. Kapil Sibal urged all political parties not to attend any government-called meeting unless chaired by Prime Minister Modi himself.
These developments underscore the serious concerns within the Indian political establishment regarding the recent escalation and de-escalation of tensions with Pakistan. The Congress party's questioning of the US role and the demand for a special session of Parliament reflect a desire for transparency, accountability, and a thorough discussion on the implications of these events for India's national security and foreign policy.
