Speaking to reporters, Gandhi claimed that India’s foreign policy lacks institutional strength and is overly influenced by individual leadership. “Our foreign policy is the Prime Minister’s personal foreign policy. Everyone considers this a universal joke,” he said.
He further alleged that Prime Minister Modi is “compromised” and suggested that global leaders, including former US President Donald Trump, are aware of his limitations. “Donald Trump knows exactly what PM Modi can and cannot do. If the Prime Minister is compromised, our foreign policy is compromised,” Gandhi added.
Concerns Over Rising Prices and Global Tensions
Gandhi also raised concerns about the rising prices of LPG and petrol, linking them to the ongoing geopolitical tensions, including the Israel-Iran conflict. He warned that the economic burden on citizens is likely to increase.
“It is just the beginning where LPG and petrol prices have risen. People will have to suffer due to this,” he said. He also criticised the Prime Minister’s recent remarks comparing the current situation to the Covid-19 pandemic, saying such statements overlook the human cost of the crisis.
“He claims the situation will be like Covid, but he forgot how many people died during Covid and the tragedies that took place,” Gandhi remarked.
Criticism of Government’s Handling of Foreign Affairs
The Congress leader accused the Prime Minister of acting under the influence of the United States and Israel, rather than prioritising India’s national interests. “He will do whatever America says and will not work in the interest of the farmers and the country,” Gandhi alleged.
Gandhi also described the government’s recent parliamentary address on foreign policy as “irrelevant,” questioning the clarity and direction of India’s global stance.
Government’s Response and All-Party Meeting
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the Rajya Sabha, assured the nation that India has sufficient crude oil reserves and robust supply arrangements despite disruptions caused by the West Asia conflict.
He highlighted that India has expanded its strategic petroleum reserves and strengthened refining capacity to mitigate the impact of global uncertainties, particularly those affecting trade routes like the Strait of Hormuz.
The government has also called for an all-party meeting on Wednesday to discuss the evolving situation. However, Rahul Gandhi stated that he would not be able to attend due to a prior commitment in poll-bound Kerala.
“An all-party meeting should take place, but a structural blunder has been made,” he said.
