The Indian National Congress is intensifying its criticism of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, focusing on former US President Donald Trump's repeated claims of having brokered a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. The party's renewed attack includes strong statements about Modi's silence on the matter and his relationship with Trump.
Congress Leaders Sharpen Rhetoric
Congress leaders are increasingly vocal in their disapproval of Modi's perceived inaction regarding Trump's claims about facilitating a ceasefire. During a parliamentary debate on Operation Sindoor, Rahul Gandhi challenged Modi to directly contradict Trump's assertions, suggesting that Modi lacked the courage to do so. Gandhi stated that if Modi possessed even half the courage of Indira Gandhi, he would declare in Parliament that Trump is lying. He pointed out that Trump had made the claim numerous times.
Echoing Gandhi's sentiment, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge questioned why India remained silent despite Trump's repeated claims of brokering a ceasefire. Kharge wondered why India was not ready to accept Trump's claims.
Pawan Khera's Comments
Adding to the Congress's offensive, party spokesperson Pawan Khera has made pointed remarks about Modi's behavior. Khera has accused Modi of being "allergic to Rahul’s advice". Khera also used strong imagery, stating that "Trump coiled around Modi like a snake". In another statement, Khera questioned why Modi doesn't contest elections from southern India, asking if he is afraid.
The Ceasefire Claim and Operation Sindoor
The controversy stems from Donald Trump's repeated assertions that he played a role in securing a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. These claims have surfaced in connection with "Operation Sindoor", a military operation. Congress has questioned the government's handling of Operation Sindoor, particularly regarding the constraints allegedly placed on the armed forces. Rahul Gandhi claimed that India lost fighter jets during the operation due to political constraints. He criticized the government for informing Pakistan that India only hit non-military targets and didn't seek escalation, calling it a surrender.
Government's Response
Prime Minister Modi has addressed the issue of external interference in Operation Sindoor, stating that no foreign leader requested a halt to the operation. He also mentioned that the US Vice President tried to contact him multiple times on the night of May 9, but he was busy with meetings with the armed forces. However, Modi has not directly addressed Trump's claims of mediating a ceasefire, which has fueled the Congress's criticism.
Historical Context: Trump's Previous Kashmir Mediation Offer
This is not the first time that Donald Trump has made claims about mediating between India and Pakistan. In 2019, Trump stated that Prime Minister Modi had asked him to help with the Kashmir issue and that he would be happy to mediate. India firmly rejected this claim, asserting that all outstanding issues with Pakistan are discussed bilaterally and that no such request was made to Trump.
Underlying Tensions
The Congress party's relentless questioning of Modi's silence on Trump's ceasefire claims reflects deeper concerns about India's foreign policy and its relationship with the United States. The party alleges that the Modi government has weakened India's foreign policy. Rahul Gandhi has also criticized the External Affairs Minister's use of the term "new normal" and claimed that after the Pahalgam terror attack, no country condemned Pakistan, suggesting that the world is equating India with Pakistan.
