The Congress party launched a sharp criticism against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday, following revelations in a recent US commission report that highlighted Pakistan's military successes.
Political Firestorm Erupts Over US Report
The opposition party did not hold back in its assessment of the government's foreign policy approach, particularly regarding India's western neighbor. The controversy stems from a report by the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), which contained observations about Pakistan's military achievements that have now become a political flashpoint in India.
Congress leaders targeted both PM Modi and EAM Jaishankar for what they described as a failure in India's diplomatic strategy. The party questioned how Pakistan could be receiving positive recognition in international reports while India's government had consistently positioned itself as taking a strong stance against cross-border terrorism and regional security threats.
The USCIRF Report Details
The triggering document was the annual report from the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom, an independent federal government entity. While the commission primarily focuses on religious freedom issues, the report contained segments that the Indian opposition interpreted as acknowledging Pakistan's military successes in certain areas.
Congress spokespersons emphasized that the report's content contradicted the Indian government's narrative about effectively countering Pakistan on international platforms. The timing of the criticism is significant as it comes amid ongoing political debates about India's foreign policy achievements and challenges.
Government's Diplomatic Approach Questioned
The opposition party specifically questioned the effectiveness of EAM Jaishankar's much-publicized diplomatic efforts. Congress leaders argued that if Pakistan was receiving positive mentions in international reports, it indicated shortcomings in India's ability to present its case effectively on global platforms.
Political analysts suggest this criticism reflects the ongoing tension between the ruling party and opposition regarding foreign policy matters. The Congress party has consistently sought to challenge the government's claims of diplomatic successes, and the USCIRF report provided fresh ammunition for their arguments.
The development highlights how international reports and assessments can quickly become domestic political tools, with opposition parties using them to question government policies and achievements. As India approaches various state and national elections, such foreign policy debates are likely to intensify further.
The government has yet to issue an official response to the Congress party's latest allegations. However, given the sensitivity of India-Pakistan relations and the government's strong stance on national security matters, a rebuttal is expected in the coming days.
