In a fresh wave of controversy, the Congress party has accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of dodging US President Donald Trump’s repeated claims that he mediated a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. The opposition alleges Modi’s refusal to categorically deny Trump’s assertions stems from a precarious position, hinting at potential diplomatic cover-ups. The remarks come amid escalating tensions over India’s foreign policy and looming US tariffs, adding fuel to an already heated political debate.
On Tuesday, while speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One en route from Scotland to Washington, Trump reiterated his claim of brokering a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. “India has been, they’re my friends, and he’s my friend,” Trump said, referring to Modi. “They ended the war with Pakistan at my request, and that was great.” This marks the 30th time Trump has made such claims, spanning speeches in the US, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UK since May 10, 2025, when he first announced on social media that India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire following US-mediated talks.
Congress leaders have seized on Trump’s statements to criticize Modi. Jairam Ramesh, Congress general secretary in-charge of communications, took to X, saying, “Why is the PM simply refusing to unequivocally and categorically deny what his good friend Donald Trump has now said 30 times? The answer is clear. Mr. Narendra Modi is on a very weak wicket and has much to cover up.” Pawan Khera, head of Congress’ media department, added a vivid metaphor: “Trump is coiled around Modi like a snake, hissing bitter truths into his ear. Rahul Gandhi gave him a chance to wriggle out by denying Trump’s claims, but Modi is allergic to taking Rahul ji’s advice.”
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The controversy traces back to May 7, 2025, when India launched Operation Sindoor, targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in response to the Pahalgam attack that killed 26 civilians. Intense cross-border drone and missile strikes followed, culminating in a mutual understanding on May 10 to halt hostilities. India has consistently maintained that this cessation was achieved through direct talks between the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of both nations, initiated at Pakistan’s request. During a 35-minute phone call with Trump in June, Modi reportedly emphasized that India would “never accept” mediation, reinforcing that the dialogue was bilateral.
In the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi challenged Modi to denounce Trump’s claims outright. “If Modi ji has even 50 percent of the courage that Indira Gandhi had, he must say in Parliament—Donald Trump is lying,” Gandhi declared. Modi, responding in the debate, sidestepped a direct rebuttal, instead highlighting global support for Operation Sindoor and criticizing Congress for not backing India’s soldiers. Gandhi later told reporters, “Narendra Modi did not clearly say that Trump is lying. Trump has said 29 times that he brought about a ceasefire, but Modi did not respond to it.”
Adding to the diplomatic strain, Trump’s comments on potential 20-25% US tariffs on Indian goods have raised concerns about economic repercussions. India’s Ministry of External Affairs has yet to issue a formal response to Trump’s latest remarks, but sources indicate growing unease in New Delhi over the narrative of foreign mediation in a sensitive bilateral issue.
The Congress party’s aggressive stance reflects broader political tensions as it seeks to portray Modi’s government as evasive on critical foreign policy matters. Meanwhile, analysts suggest Modi’s reluctance to confront Trump directly may stem from a desire to maintain strong India-US ties, especially given Trump’s unpredictable diplomatic style. As the controversy unfolds, it underscores the delicate balance of domestic politics and international relations in an increasingly polarized global landscape.
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