Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Sunday launched a sharp attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the deaths of three Indian seafarers in a US military strike on a commercial vessel near the Oman coast, accusing the government of remaining silent on an issue involving Indian citizens and national sovereignty. Kharge questioned the Prime Minister’s response to the incident and alleged that the government had failed to adequately defend India’s interests in the face of international pressure.

In a statement posted on social media, Kharge said the country was mourning the loss of the three sailors while awaiting a response from the Prime Minister. He claimed that despite several days having passed since the incident, there had been no public statement or condolence message from Modi regarding the deaths. The Congress chief argued that Indian lives should never be treated as secondary in matters of foreign policy and called for greater accountability from the government.

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also criticised the Centre, describing its response as inadequate. She said the government's silence following the deaths was concerning and asserted that India should firmly communicate its position to the United States. Priyanka argued that India, as a sovereign nation, must safeguard both its citizens and national interests, particularly when incidents involving Indian nationals occur abroad.

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The criticism comes amid escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically vital maritime route that has witnessed increased military activity in recent months. Three vessels carrying Indian crew members reportedly came under attack off the Oman coast during the week, with one strike resulting in the deaths of three Indian seafarers. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of commercial shipping in the region and the broader impact of geopolitical conflicts on international trade routes.

India has already registered its protest with Washington over the incident. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar spoke with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, describing the deaths of Indian sailors in strikes on commercial vessels as unacceptable and stressing that lethal actions against merchant shipping could not be justified. New Delhi also summoned the US Charge d’Affaires to formally convey its concerns regarding the attacks and their consequences for Indian nationals.

The controversy has further intensified after remarks from US officials regarding enforcement of the American naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz and allegations involving Iranian activity in the region. While the United States has defended its actions as part of efforts to maintain maritime security, opposition parties in India have demanded stronger diplomatic engagement and greater transparency from the government. The issue is expected to remain a key subject of political debate as India navigates the diplomatic and strategic implications of the incident.

Also Read: US Strike Off Oman Coast Kills Three Indian Sailors, Bodies Recovered And Identified