‘Under their control’: Rahul Gandhi targets PM Modi over US' ‘won’t tolerate' remark after 3 Indian sailors killed

In a recent statement, Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, has sharply criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP-led government for their perceived inaction regarding the deaths of three Indian sailors due to US Navy strikes. The incident, which involved the oil tanker MT Settebello, has raised serious concerns about India's maritime security and the government's response to foreign military actions affecting Indian nationals. Gandhi accused the government of failing to uphold the dignity and honor of the country, stating that the Prime Minister's silence in the face of such a grave situation is unacceptable. The US Navy's actions, which were justified by the US government as necessary to enforce a blockade on Iranian ports, have been met with outrage from various political leaders in India. Gandhi's remarks highlight a growing sentiment among opposition parties that the Modi administration is compromising India's sovereignty by allowing foreign powers to dictate terms regarding Indian citizens. The Congress leader emphasized that a responsible government should prioritize the safety of its citizens and respond decisively to any threats against them. Furthermore, Gandhi pointed out that the US State Department's statement, which indicated that commercial vessels must comply with US military orders, reflects a troubling trend of subservience to foreign powers. He stated, "A free country would never tolerate such language. But our compromised PM? Silent. They listen like an obedient servant and comply with the orders." This statement underscores the opposition's narrative that the current government is not only failing to protect Indian interests but is also undermining the country's standing on the global stage. In response to the incident, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has reportedly lodged a formal protest with the US government, expressing India's strong disapproval of the attacks that led to the deaths of the sailors. However, critics argue that the government's response has been too mild and lacks the necessary urgency. The opposition has called for a more robust diplomatic stance that demands accountability from the US for its military actions that endanger Indian lives. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the government will navigate this diplomatic crisis and what measures will be taken to ensure the safety of Indian nationals abroad.