New Delhi, June 14: The Indian National Congress has raised strong objections to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s silence regarding former US President Donald Trump’s repeated claims about facilitating a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. Addressing a press conference in New Delhi, Congress leaders pointed out that Trump has made similar statements at least 13 times since his presidency, and yet the Indian government has not issued a clear response to counter the narrative.
The controversy traces back to multiple public remarks made by Trump during his term in office, where he claimed to have been asked by PM Modi to mediate between India and Pakistan, especially over issues related to Kashmir and border tensions. Despite India’s foreign ministry officially denying such claims at the time, Congress leaders now question why the Prime Minister himself has remained silent.
Congress Demands Clarity
Congress spokespersons, including senior leader Randeep Singh Surjewala, criticized what they termed a “lack of transparency” in the Modi government's handling of foreign policy matters. Surjewala said,
“When a foreign leader makes such statements repeatedly, and the Prime Minister refuses to comment or clarify, it raises serious concerns about India’s diplomatic stance and national interests.”
He further alleged that the BJP government’s approach has diluted India’s firm position that no third-party mediation is acceptable in bilateral issues with Pakistan.
Background of Trump's Claims
During his presidency, Donald Trump publicly stated multiple times that Prime Minister Modi had requested his intervention to help resolve the Kashmir conflict. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs quickly rejected these claims, asserting that India’s position on third-party mediation remains unchanged. However, Trump’s repeated statements and the lack of direct denial from PM Modi himself have kept the issue alive in public discourse.
Opposition Seeks PM’s Statement
Congress has now renewed its demand for a direct statement from the Prime Minister. The party argues that in the absence of a firm response, such claims could set a dangerous precedent, damaging India’s long-standing diplomatic principles.
Party leaders also questioned the Prime Minister's commitment to national security and sovereignty, especially at a time when India faces multiple challenges on its borders. The silence, they said, could be misinterpreted by the international community and could embolden foreign narratives about India’s internal matters.
Government’s Response So Far
So far, the BJP-led central government has not officially responded to Congress’s recent statements. The Ministry of External Affairs, in its previous communications, has maintained that India's position remains clear and consistent: all matters with Pakistan are strictly bilateral and no third-party involvement is acceptable.
Conclusion
The Congress party’s criticism has reignited debate over how India communicates its foreign policy positions on sensitive matters. As Donald Trump continues to refer to his alleged role in easing India-Pakistan tensions, the demand for a direct statement from PM Modi is gaining traction. With diplomatic clarity at stake, political observers believe the government may soon need to issue a more comprehensive response.
