New Delhi, March 29 – The Congress party on Sunday criticized the government's foreign policy, arguing that it has led to Pakistan, once isolated, gaining acceptance and respect from US President Donald Trump amidst the West Asia conflict.
"This is a country that was dealt with very strictly by Presidents Clinton, Bush, Obama, and Biden. Now, after being isolated following its terror offensive in Mumbai in November 2008, Pakistan has gained new acceptance," said former Union Minister Jairam Ramesh.
Claiming that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not been able to gain any diplomatic leverage with the US, Ramesh said, "That Pakistan has become – in the words of the esteemed Dr. S. Jaishankar – a 'dalal' (intermediary) is a reflection of the colossal failure of the Modi government's foreign policy, diplomatic engagement, and narrative management following India's striking military success in Operation Sindoor."
The Congress MP, General Secretary in charge of party communications, said, "Undoubtedly, President Trump (Mr. Modi's 'good friend') has contributed significantly to Pakistan's current standing."
This is not the first time that the Congress has criticized Prime Minister Modi and the government amid recent developments in West Asia and their impact on India.
The BJP has been constantly refuting the allegations leveled by the Congress and other opposition parties.
Recently, BJP leader and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said, "Prime Minister Modi is playing his role in his own way, upholding the self-respect of his country; however, the Congress is continuously attempting to mislead the nation."
He also extended support to the statement of External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar regarding the reported central role played by Pakistan in mediating between the US and Iran.
The Chief Minister said, "The Congress leaders are saying that had we spoken to this person or that person, things would have turned out differently. India is playing its role on its own terms. I appreciate EAM S. Jaishankar for calling Pakistan a dalal."
During an all-party meeting held on March 25, EAM Jaishankar reportedly said that "India cannot be a 'broker' (Dalal) nation".