Modi takes vailed dig at Rahul Gandhi in US Congress speech: ‘When we speak for our nation…’

Rahul Gandhi, a prominent leader of the Indian opposition, had been critical of the Modi government while on his foreign visits.

• Shubham
• 23 June, 2023

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By: Shubham Ghosh

INDIAN prime minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (22) expressed his admiration for the unity displayed by members of the US Congress in celebrating the strong ties between the US and India while addressing a joint session at the US Capitol.

While acknowledging the importance of ideological differences and healthy debates within a nation, he emphasised the need for people to come together and speak with a unified voice when representing their country.

The prime minister’s comments made during his address to a joint session of the US Congress were seen as a response to Rahul Gandhi, a prominent leader of the opposition Congress party, who had been critical of the Modi government while on his foreign visits. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) often portrayed Gandhi’s criticisms as attempts to tarnish the country’s image from abroad in order to target the federal government.

Modi’s words were interpreted as a veiled rebuke to the Congress leader. He said, “I am happy to help out whenever you need a strong bipartisan consensus. There will be – and there must be – a contest of ideas at home. But, we must also come together as one when we speak for our nation. And, you have shown that you can do it. Congratulations!”

In his address, PM Modi also commended US House of Representatives Speaker Kevin McCarthy for his role in leading a vibrant democracy. Drawing from his own experiences, he acknowledged the challenges faced in navigating the realms of passion, persuasion, and policy. Gandhi had recently visited the United States and had been critical of the Modi government’s handling of domestic issues.

In May, Modi had taken a dig at the opposition parties at home who refused to attend the inauguration of India’s new parliament building citing the unity of the politicians of Australia where he went a few days before, saying the opposition politicians of the host country were present at a programme of the Indian diaspora in Sydney that he attended.

(With agency inputs)