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Photograph: (X (formerly Twitter))
PM Modi’s US visit sparked significant buzz on an international level. From Donald Trump offering F-35 fighter jets to giving India a free hand in the Bangladesh conflict, several critical topics were discussed during the meeting. However, the visit also triggered debates within India, especially within the Congress party. Two prominent Congress leaders—Rahul Gandhi and Shashi Tharoor—have taken contrasting stances on PM Modi’s visit. Their opposing remarks have raised questions about whether there is a possible rift within the party. Let’s take a look at what they said.
Rahul Gandhi Criticises PM Modi Over Adani Controversy
Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to criticise PM Modi’s handling of the Adani controversy during his US visit. He wrote: "If you ask questions in the country, there is silence. If you ask abroad, it is a personal matter! Even in America, Modi Ji covered up Adani Ji's corruption! When filling a friend's pocket is 'nation building' for Modiji, then taking bribes and looting the nation's wealth becomes a 'personal matter'."
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देश में सवाल पूछो तो चुप्पी,
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) February 14, 2025
विदेश में पूछो तो निजी मामला!
अमेरिका में भी मोदी जी ने अडानी जी के भ्रष्टाचार पर पर्दा डाल दिया!
जब मित्र का जेब भरना मोदी जी के लिए “राष्ट्र निर्माण” है, तब रिश्वतखोरी और देश की संपत्ति को लूटना “व्यक्तिगत मामला” बन जाता है।
His remarks were in response to PM Modi’s comments during a joint press conference when asked about the allegations of bribery and fraud charges against Indian businessman Gautam Adani in the US. PM Modi stated: "When it comes to such personal matters, two leaders of two countries will not get together on the topic and discuss anything on an individual matter."
Shashi Tharoor’s Take on PM Modi's US Visit
While Rahul Gandhi took a critical stance, senior Congress leader and Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor had a completely different viewpoint. Speaking to news agency ANI, Tharoor expressed optimism about PM Modi’s US visit, highlighting its positive aspects. He said: "So far, what we have seen from the press statements by the Prime Minister and President Trump are very encouraging. Some of the big concerns we all had have been addressed. On the question of trade and tariffs, they have decided to sit down together and do a serious negotiation that will conclude by September-October."
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#WATCH | Bengaluru, Karnataka: On PM Narendra Modi's US visit, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor says, "So far, what we have seen from the press statements by the Prime Minister and President Trump are very encouraging. Some of the big concerns we all had have been addressed. On the… pic.twitter.com/833RLo9Jsd
— ANI (@ANI) February 14, 2025
He further said, "On the illegal immigration issue, the only thing missing was the manner in which they were sent back. Otherwise, his stand was absolutely correct. These are misled youth who have been encouraged and induced to migrate illegally."
On India-US bilateral talks, Shashi Tharoor said, "The commitment to sell us the F-35 stealth aircraft is very valuable, as it is a state-of-the-art aircraft. I am very encouraged by the details received so far and look forward to more when the Prime Minister and his team return. We have got all that we could have expected, except for an assurance on how the migrants were sent back."
Is There a Rift in Congress?
The stark contrast between Rahul Gandhi’s criticism and Shashi Tharoor’s optimism has fueled speculation about a growing divide within Congress. While Rahul Gandhi remains firm in his opposition to PM Modi, Tharoor’s balanced approach indicates a more pragmatic stance.
Congress, as a party, has been struggling to make an impact in elections. Recently, in the Delhi Assembly elections, Congress failed to secure a single seat, and political experts attributed this to the rift within the INDIA alliance—formed to counter the BJP-led NDA. The alliance has failed to leave a significant mark in several states.
Now, with two prominent Congress leaders taking opposing stands on PM Modi’s US visit, questions arise: Is there a lack of consensus within Congress? Is the party struggling with internal divisions? These developments could have a lasting impact on the party’s strategy and unity in the future.