Sachin Pilot interview: ‘Govt must clear the air on US claims on ceasefire, linking it to trade, putting Kashmir on table’

New Delhi, May 14 — Congress leader Sachin Pilot has called on the Indian government to clarify recent claims by US officials. The American statement suggested that India’s 2021 ceasefire with Pakistan was influenced by US diplomacy. It also hinted that India may have engaged on Kashmir and trade as part of the deal.

US Remarks Spark Political Reaction

A senior US diplomat recently claimed that Washington played a role in encouraging the India-Pakistan ceasefire. He also suggested possible links to trade discussions and Kashmir talks. These remarks have sparked concern in Indian political circles.

Pilot responded strongly. “If a foreign government makes such claims, the Indian government must respond. We can’t stay silent on sensitive issues like Kashmir,” he said. “Our national interest cannot be part of secret deals.”

Opposition Pushes for Transparency

The Congress leader urged the government to come clean. “Foreign policy, especially on defense and territorial issues, needs transparency. The Prime Minister must tell the nation if any backdoor commitments were made,” he stated.

Pilot emphasized that Kashmir is not a bargaining chip. “If Kashmir was part of a discussion with another country, people have a right to know. That would be a major shift from our long-standing position,” he said.

Background of the Ceasefire Deal

In February 2021, India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire along the Line of Control. At the time, officials said the decision was bilateral. However, US officials now claim they helped facilitate it and tied it to trade talks.

Pilot questioned this narrative. “Were India’s trade interests linked to its foreign policy stance on Kashmir? If so, Parliament needs answers,” he said.

Kashmir: A Core Issue

India has always insisted that Kashmir is an internal matter. It has also refused third-party mediation. “If US claims are true, the government’s approach has shifted,” Pilot warned. “That needs an open debate.”

He added that such ambiguity weakens India’s position. “The government cannot tell the public one thing and foreign governments another,” he said. “We need a consistent, clear stance.”

Call for Parliamentary Discussion

Pilot urged the government to release official records and speak in Parliament. “We need full disclosure. People must know what was promised and to whom,” he said.

BJP Reaction and Silence from Officials

BJP leaders dismissed the US claims. They said the remarks were speculative. But the Ministry of External Affairs and the Prime Minister’s Office have yet to issue a formal response. This silence has raised more questions.

Conclusion

Sachin Pilot’s demand reflects growing concern about India’s foreign policy. With Kashmir and trade at the center, citizens expect clarity and honesty. The government must address these concerns directly and transparently.