JAMMU, May 21: A senior leader of the Jammu and Kashmir Congress on Thursday asserted that India is currently experiencing a period of “diplomatic isolation” under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while also accusing the Prime Minister of engaging in “jingoism and theatrics” on international stages.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that Tariq Hameed Karra, a former Member of Parliament, made these remarks while addressing reporters in Jammu on the sidelines of an event commemorating the late Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. Karra drew a parallel between the current government’s foreign policy and the past, suggesting a decline in global support for India.
Karra stated that Prime Minister Modi’s internal and economic policies are exacerbating existing problems, and his external policies are leading to a gradual erosion of international support that India once enjoyed. He noted the formation of new geopolitical blocs and decisions being made concerning India, which he implied were detrimental.
Referencing statements made by Rahul Gandhi, the current leader of the Congress party, Karra emphasized that warnings about the deteriorating situation had been disregarded by the government in the past. He reiterated Gandhi’s assertion that “there is still time to save this situation and stop this decline,” indicating a persistent belief within the party that corrective actions can still be taken.
The Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee president urged the government to reconsider its policies, advocating for a more people-centric approach. He advised against viewing India solely through the perspective of a select few individuals, stressing the need to frame policies that encompass the needs of all 140 crore Indian citizens.
Reflecting on the legacy of Rajiv Gandhi, Karra highlighted his sacrifice for the nation’s unity and integrity, drawing parallels with his mother, Indira Gandhi, who also gave her life for the country’s sovereignty. He credited Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and Abul Kalam Azad, under the guidance of Mahatma Gandhi, for laying the foundations of modern India by integrating various princely states and regions into a unified nation.
Karra further elaborated on Rajiv Gandhi’s contributions, specifically mentioning his role in resolving internal issues, including those in Punjab and the North East, through democratic means. In contrast, he expressed concern over the current situation in the North East, noting increased Chinese influence and settlements in the region. Karra criticized Prime Minister Modi’s public statements, such as “let any Indian come, whoever may come,” deeming them as outright falsehoods that undermine the dignity and maturity expected of the office of the Prime Minister.
Drawing further criticism, Karra alluded to the government’s past directives during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as asking citizens to bang utensils, and the current advice for reduced fuel and oil consumption amidst international conflicts. He concluded by stating that the “jingoism and theatrics” displayed on the global stage cause Indians to feel ashamed, irrespective of their political or ideological differences.
The Chenab Times News Desk