Congress top brass to meet today to discuss Trump claims on ceasefire with Pakistan
New Delhi, May 14:
The Congress party has called for an emergency meeting today after former U.S. President Donald Trump claimed credit for brokering a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. His statement has triggered political uproar, with Congress demanding an official response from the Modi government.
Trump’s Statement Sparks Controversy
During a recent political rally in Ohio, Trump said his administration prevented a major conflict between India and Pakistan. He suggested that U.S. diplomacy played a direct role in calming tensions, especially after the Pahalgam terror attack earlier this year.
“We brought India and Pakistan together and stopped what could’ve been a war,” Trump claimed. The remark has drawn sharp criticism and raised questions about India’s role in the process.
Congress Questions Modi Government’s Silence
Congress leaders expressed alarm over Trump’s remarks. The party wants to know why the Indian government has not responded or clarified the situation. Party president Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, and Rahul Gandhi are attending today’s high-level meeting at the AICC headquarters.
In a viral social media post, Congress asked, “Did ‘Ameriki papa’ broker peace for India? Why is our government silent?”
Jairam Ramesh, Congress general secretary, accused the Modi administration of hiding crucial information. “Trump is making bold claims, yet our government is quiet. Why hasn’t the External Affairs Ministry addressed it?” he asked.
Concerns About National Security and Diplomacy
Congress plans to raise key questions during the meeting. The party is particularly concerned about India’s diplomatic independence and transparency in foreign affairs. Leaders say any foreign intervention in ceasefire talks should have been disclosed to the public.
“If Trump’s claims are true, why wasn’t Parliament informed? Why was the public kept in the dark?” said spokesperson Supriya Shrinate.
The party may propose a formal resolution demanding a detailed explanation from the government. Some leaders are also calling for a special parliamentary session to discuss national security and foreign policy protocols.
Government Refutes U.S. Mediation Claims
Sources within the Ministry of External Affairs have rejected Trump’s claims. A senior official stated that the ceasefire was a direct agreement between India and Pakistan. The talks, according to the official, happened through military communication channels with no foreign involvement.
“The ceasefire was coordinated through our military mechanisms. No third-party mediation took place,” the official emphasized.
This aligns with India’s long-standing position of handling bilateral issues with Pakistan without external intervention.
Analysts Warn Against Overreaction
Foreign policy experts suggest Trump’s statement may be an exaggeration. Some believe he is using the issue to gain political traction in the U.S. presidential race. However, they agree that the Indian government must offer clarity to avoid confusion.
“Trump tends to overstate his role in global affairs. But the lack of response from India only fuels speculation,” said Professor Harsh V. Pant, an international relations expert.
Fragile Peace Along the Border
India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire earlier this year following increased tensions in Jammu and Kashmir. Both countries confirmed the agreement publicly but did not share the details. Since then, reports of border skirmishes and infiltrations have dropped, though terror threats remain.
Last month’s Pahalgam attack, which killed several soldiers, briefly escalated tensions. However, both nations avoided any large-scale military action.
Congress Pushes for Greater Oversight
During today’s meeting, Congress leaders are expected to demand more parliamentary oversight of foreign policy. They argue that India’s approach to national security must involve democratic checks and public accountability.
“Foreign policy isn’t a private business. Elected representatives must be informed of any sensitive diplomatic move,” said MP Shashi Tharoor.
Conclusion
Congress has intensified its pressure on the Modi government following Trump’s controversial claim. The party demands a clear response to protect India’s diplomatic credibility. With the Lok Sabha elections underway, the issue has added a new layer of complexity to the political landscape.
As the Congress meeting concludes, all eyes are now on the government’s next move. Will Modi’s administration dismiss Trump’s claims outright, or will it shed light on what really happened behind the scenes?
