Cheated, humiliated at Donald Trump ceasefire announcement: Congress
New Delhi, May 12 — The Indian National Congress on Monday blamed the Modi government for damaging India’s international image. The party reacted strongly after former U.S. President Donald Trump claimed India participated in a ceasefire deal, without any prior disclosure from Indian authorities. Congress leaders said the announcement humiliated India on the global stage.
Trump linked the ceasefire to recent tensions in the Middle East or South Asia. His mention of India came as a surprise, since neither the Ministry of External Affairs nor the Prime Minister’s Office had acknowledged any involvement.
Congress Questions Modi Government’s Silence
At a press conference in New Delhi, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh criticized the government’s lack of transparency. “Why did Trump say India was involved in a ceasefire when our government didn’t inform us? Are we just bystanders now?” he asked. “This goes against basic diplomatic norms.”
Ramesh argued that the Modi government had once again allowed a foreign leader to speak on India’s behalf. “This isn’t a one-time mistake — it keeps happening,” he said. “Our government continues to damage India’s global credibility.”
Kharge Says Foreign Policy Has Collapsed
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also spoke out. He claimed the Modi government failed to protect India’s diplomatic standing. “When Trump says India agreed to something, and our leaders stay silent, it shows how little control we have over our foreign policy,” Kharge said.
He accused the Prime Minister of focusing more on image than substance. “You can’t lead a country through silence and showmanship,” he said.
MEA Stays Quiet, BJP Defends Government
The Ministry of External Affairs has not responded publicly. However, the BJP dismissed Congress’s criticism. BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said Congress rushed to politicize the situation.
“India uses backchannel diplomacy regularly. A statement by a foreign leader doesn’t mean the government mishandled anything,” Patra argued.
Experts Share Mixed Reactions
Foreign policy analysts also weighed in. Former ambassador Kanwal Sibal said the lack of communication from India created confusion. “If India participated in the deal, the government should have said something. Remaining silent hurts our credibility,” he said.
Other experts noted the shift in modern diplomacy. In today’s world, political leaders often make public statements before fully informing all parties involved.
Congress Demands an Explanation
Congress called for a parliamentary discussion. Party leaders urged Prime Minister Modi to address the nation. “We demand clear answers. The people of India deserve the truth,” Ramesh said.
The situation continues to draw attention. Without a formal statement from the government, many now question whether this was a diplomatic failure or simply poor communication.
