As Trump repeats truce claim, Rahul, Kharge target govt
Donald Trump has again claimed he stopped a war between India and Pakistan in 2019. At a recent campaign rally, the former U.S. President said, “I got the ceasefire done.” He even added that five fighter jets were shot down during the tension.
This is not the first time Trump has taken credit for easing tensions between the two nations. However, India has always denied that any foreign country played a role in the ceasefire. Officials have maintained that Indian and Pakistani militaries handled the matter directly, without outside help.
Rahul Gandhi Slams PM Modi’s Silence
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi strongly criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not reacting to Trump’s claims. Speaking at a press event, he asked, “Who is Trump to broker peace between India and Pakistan?” Rahul questioned why PM Modi remains silent while Trump repeats this claim.
He hinted at hidden truths behind the silence. “There’s something fishy here,” Rahul said, implying that the government might be hiding details from the public. He accused the Prime Minister of allowing India’s honour to be traded for diplomatic gains or foreign approval.
Kharge: “This Is Embarrassing for India”
Mallikarjun Kharge, President of the Indian National Congress, joined Rahul in attacking the government. He described Trump’s statement as a direct insult to India’s sovereignty.
“Why has the Prime Minister not rejected Trump’s statement on record?” Kharge asked. He said such silence raises serious concerns about how India handles its defence and foreign policy. Kharge urged Parliament to hold a special debate to clarify India’s stand on the 2019 ceasefire and the nature of talks with the U.S.
Government Chooses Silence, For Now
Despite the growing storm, the government hasn’t issued any new statement. The Ministry of External Affairs had earlier clarified that India didn’t accept third-party mediation. Officials said India managed the situation with Pakistan using its own diplomatic and military channels.
Sources suggest that the Modi government may be avoiding a response to prevent Trump’s comments from gaining further attention. Some BJP leaders believe reacting to every statement from a foreign leader is unnecessary, especially during a U.S. election year.
Opposition Demands a Parliamentary Debate
Congress and several opposition parties have demanded a full debate in Parliament. They want clarity on two key issues: Trump’s repeated claims and India’s recent national security actions, including the Pahalgam terror attack.
The ruling BJP has agreed to a limited discussion under Rule 176. But the Congress party rejected this format, saying the topic deserves more than a token debate. They want a full two-day session under Rule 267, which allows members to discuss serious national matters.
Bigger Concerns Over India’s Global Image
This issue goes beyond one foreign leader’s remarks. If Trump’s claims remain unchallenged, the world might believe India needs external help to manage its security. Congress leaders say that weak responses from the Modi government damage India’s global reputation.
Kharge warned that if India doesn’t speak up, it sets a dangerous precedent. “We must never let other countries assume they have a say in our defence decisions,” he said. He added that the Prime Minister must defend the dignity of India in every forum, both local and global.
Trump’s Timing and Political Motive
Analysts believe Trump’s remarks have more to do with U.S. politics than with India. With his 2024 campaign heating up, Trump may be trying to remind voters of his global influence. For Indian politicians, however, these comments have triggered a new round of internal debate.
Rahul Gandhi and Kharge are using this moment to highlight what they see as Modi’s failures in transparency and foreign policy. The opposition believes the silence reflects either weakness or a lack of honesty.
Conclusion
Donald Trump’s India Pakistan ceasefire claim has turned into a domestic flashpoint. With Parliament in session and the opposition on the offensive, pressure is growing on the Modi government to clarify its position. Whether the Prime Minister chooses to respond or continue his silence, this issue will likely remain in the political spotlight ahead of both U.S. and Indian elections.
