Shashi Tharoor Responds to Rahul Gandhi's 'Surrender' Remark: India Doesn't Need a Third Party to Deal with Pakistan. He advocated for a b response to terrorism.
New Delhi: Rahul Gandhi's recent statement referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's actions as "surrender" has ignited a political firestorm. Senior Congress leader and Member of Parliament Shashi Tharoor responded to this remark from Washington D.C., asserting that India does not require a third party to mediate with Pakistan and that terrorism will be met with strength. Let's delve into the details of this controversy.
Rahul Gandhi's 'Surrender' Remark
On June 3rd, during a rally in Madhya Pradesh, Rahul Gandhi made a controversial comment about Prime Minister Modi, stating that Modi "surrendered" when then-US President Trump intervened in India-Pakistan negotiations. This statement drew significant opposition within the political arena.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) condemned the statement, viewing it as an insult to the nation and its armed forces. BJP president J.P. Nadda claimed the statement was against the valor of the army and India's honor. He argued that even a Pakistani making such a statement would be considered a joke, but for a senior party leader to make such a remark was an act of treason.
Shashi Tharoor's Counter
Shashi Tharoor, currently leading an Indian outreach mission in Washington D.C., responded to Rahul Gandhi's statement. He asserted that as long as Pakistan continues to use the language of terrorism, India must respond in kind. Tharoor clarified that India does not need a third party to mediate with Pakistan.
He stated, "If Pakistan takes concrete steps against terrorism and demonstrates a desire for normal and peaceful relations with India, we are ready for dialogue. But we will not require any mediator for this." According to Tharoor, India has always shown a positive stance and is prepared to reciprocate if Pakistan does the same.
Shashi Tharoor's Respect for the US
Tharoor also emphasized the deep respect and strategic partnership between India and the United States. India respects the US presidency and the role of the United States. He clarified that India has not requested any mediation and this relationship should not be impacted by any controversy.