‘What was that trade diplomacy?’: J&K Congress tears into Centre over Trump’s mediation claims in ceasefire with Pakistan
May 21, 2025 | Srinagar/New Delhi — The Jammu and Kashmir unit of the Indian National Congress has sharply criticized the Centre. The criticism comes after former U.S. President Donald Trump claimed he helped mediate a ceasefire between India and Pakistan.
Trump made the comment at a recent campaign event. He said he played a key role in stopping a possible conflict between the two nuclear-armed nations. His remarks have reignited political controversy in India, especially in Kashmir.
‘What Was That Trade Diplomacy?’
Congress leaders from Jammu and Kashmir questioned the Modi government’s silence. They demanded answers about foreign involvement in the ceasefire and why the Indian public was not informed.
Speaking in Srinagar, J&K Congress spokesperson Ravinder Sharma asked tough questions. “Trump says he stopped a war between India and Pakistan. If that’s true, what did we trade in return? Was this the so-called trade diplomacy?”
He added, “Were lives in Kashmir being negotiated behind closed doors? People deserve to know the truth. Why was Parliament not informed?”
Centre Remains Silent
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has not officially responded. Sources from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reiterated India’s official stance. They claimed Kashmir is an internal matter, and no third-party mediation is allowed.
But Trump’s public statement contradicts that position. Critics say this silence from the government only deepens the confusion.
Was the Ceasefire Truly Bilateral?
In February 2021, India and Pakistan agreed to uphold the 2003 ceasefire agreement. The decision led to fewer border attacks and a more peaceful atmosphere in Kashmir.
Until now, most believed the ceasefire came from bilateral talks. Trump’s claim casts doubt on that belief.
Experts and Opposition Raise Concerns
Foreign policy experts also questioned the situation. “If Trump really helped mediate, then the Modi government must explain,” said retired diplomat Neelam Deo. “If Trump exaggerated, why hasn’t India corrected him?”
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh raised the issue on social media. “Modi ji needs to come clean. Did Trump really mediate? If not, why the silence?”
Transparency Demanded
With elections approaching and foreign policy becoming a hot topic, the Centre faces pressure to clarify its role. The people of Kashmir, who live close to the Line of Control, want honest answers.
Was peace achieved through diplomacy or outside intervention? That’s the question many are now asking.
