FridayOL

In a fiery attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi questioned Modi’s silence regarding repeated claims by US President Donald Trump about compelling him to request a ceasefire in Kashmir. Gandhi made the remarks during a rally in Bihar, intensifying the political discourse ahead of the upcoming elections.

Gandhi’s criticism stems from Trump’s public statements, where he asserted that Prime Minister Modi had requested him to mediate between India and Pakistan on the Kashmir issue and that he had persuaded Modi to do so. Trump has reportedly made these claims on multiple occasions, even mentioning the number of times he has repeated it – a staggering 11 times, according to Gandhi.

“Donald Trump has said 11 times that he compelled you (Modi) to do something,” Gandhi stated during his address, directly challenging the Prime Minister’s response to these assertions. He questioned why Modi has remained silent on such a significant claim from the US President, implying a potential lack of transparency or an attempt to downplay the situation.

The timing of Gandhi’s attack is strategically significant, occurring during a period of heightened political activity in Bihar. The state is gearing up for elections, and such direct criticism aims to galvanize support for the Congress party and highlight what Gandhi’s party perceives as weaknesses in the Modi government.

The International Ramifications

Trump’s repeated claims have raised eyebrows internationally, with many questioning the accuracy and implications of his assertions. India has traditionally maintained a policy of not seeking third-party mediation on bilateral issues, particularly concerning Kashmir. If Trump's claims hold merit, it could potentially strain India’s diplomatic relations and challenge its long-held stance.

Modi’s Response (or Lack Thereof)

The Prime Minister’s silence on the matter has fueled speculation and criticism from the opposition. Gandhi’s pointed remarks underscore the pressure on Modi to address Trump’s statements and clarify India’s position on the issue. Analysts suggest that Modi’s reluctance to respond could be attributed to various factors, including a desire to avoid escalating tensions with the US or a strategic calculation to downplay the significance of Trump’s remarks.

Political Implications in Bihar

Gandhi’s attack is clearly aimed at resonating with voters in Bihar. By highlighting what he perceives as a weakness in Modi’s leadership, he hopes to sway public opinion and bolster the Congress party’s prospects in the upcoming elections. The issue of foreign policy, often considered a less prominent concern for Indian voters, has been brought to the forefront through this controversy.

The controversy surrounding Trump’s claims and Modi’s silence is likely to continue to dominate the political landscape in India, particularly as the election season intensifies. The public awaits a clear and decisive response from the Prime Minister, one that addresses the concerns raised by both the opposition and the international community.