UP Congress President Meets Shia Cleric Amid Iran Crisis, Criticizes Modi Government
In Lucknow on Monday, Uttar Pradesh Congress president Ajay Rai held a significant meeting with prominent Shia cleric Maulana Kalbe Jawad. This engagement occurred against the backdrop of escalating regional tensions following the assassination of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Congress Leader's Strong Statements on Iran and Government Silence
During a subsequent press conference, Ajay Rai delivered a powerful statement, praising Ayatollah Khamenei's courage. "Khamenei chose bravery over surrender, and we bow to his sacrifice," Rai declared, expressing deep respect for the late leader's stance.
Rai extended heartfelt condolences to Iran and the global Shia community, describing this period as one of profound grief. "In this hour of mourning, we stand in solidarity with Iran and with Shia communities across the world," he affirmed, highlighting the Congress party's support during this turbulent time.
Sharp Criticism of Modi Government's Response
The Congress chief launched a scathing critique of the Narendra Modi-led central government for its perceived silence on the matter. Rai labeled this lack of response as shameful, arguing that it reflects poorly on India's moral and diplomatic stance.
"It not only points to a moral decline but also raises serious questions about our civilisational ethos that has always spread light and goodwill across the world," Rai asserted, emphasizing the disconnect between India's historical values and current foreign policy.
Historical Ties Between India and Iran Under Strain
Ajay Rai underscored the long-standing and historically strong ties between India and Iran, noting that these relations have significantly weakened under the Modi administration. He implied that the government's inaction jeopardizes a crucial diplomatic relationship that has benefited both nations for decades.
The meeting and statements come as regional instability intensifies, with reports of:
- Israel conducting attacks on Iran and targeting Hezbollah positions in Beirut.
- Iranian state media claiming a US F-15 fighter jet was downed in Kuwait, accompanied by a video showing the aircraft engulfed in flames and pilots ejecting.
- Explosions reported in Bahrain, Dubai, and Doha, prompting Gulf nations to vow self-defense measures.
This development highlights the Congress party's active engagement with minority communities and its vocal opposition to the government's foreign policy approach, positioning it as a critical voice in national discourse during international crises.
