Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his remarks comparing the current West Asia crisis to the Covid-19 period, calling the statement insensitive and disconnected from the hardships people faced during the pandemic. Speaking in Parliament, Gandhi said the comparison overlooked the scale of suffering and loss experienced across the country.
He also launched a broader attack on the Centre’s foreign policy, alleging that it had become overly personalised and ineffective. Gandhi argued that India’s global stance was being influenced by external powers and claimed that international actors, including Donald Trump, were fully aware of the limitations of India’s decision-making. He further suggested that the government lacked an independent strategic approach in dealing with the ongoing conflict in West Asia.
Raising concerns about the economic impact of the crisis, Gandhi warned that disruptions could soon affect essential sectors such as fuel, cooking gas, and fertilisers. He also questioned whether the government had a clear plan to deal with the unfolding situation, emphasising the need for a more comprehensive and informed response.
In contrast, the Prime Minister, while addressing the Lok Sabha earlier, had called for unity and preparedness in the face of prolonged global instability caused by the conflict. Modi stressed that the situation could have long-term consequences and urged the country to respond with patience, restraint, and coordination, similar to the collective approach adopted during the pandemic.
He also highlighted the government’s efforts to manage potential disruptions, including maintaining energy supplies, safeguarding national security, and ensuring the safety of Indian citizens abroad. Reiterating India’s position, Modi emphasised that dialogue and diplomacy remain the preferred path, with continued efforts aimed at de-escalation and stability in the region.
