New Delhi, Oct 16 (NationPress) The BJP responded assertively on Thursday to comments made by the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, regarding Prime Minister Narendra Modi's perceived 'frightened' demeanor in relation to US President Donald Trump.

Tuhin Sinha, the BJP's National Spokesperson, remarked, “Rahul Gandhi exhibits a narrow grasp of international relations. India’s energy procurement policy is both independent and sovereign. Our nation sources oil from various countries, ensuring decisions are driven by the protection of India’s national interests.”

Sinha further asserted that continuously bringing up the matter of ceasefire violations is unnecessary, as these concerns have been sufficiently addressed by the DGMO and PM Modi.

“Before making such statements, Rahul Gandhi would benefit from educating himself, especially considering Congress is currently facing significant challenges in Bihar,” Sinha added.

Previously, Rahul Gandhi launched a fierce critique of PM Modi, asserting that he is “frightened” of Trump following the latter's assertion that PM Modi had promised to halt purchases of Russian oil.

Sinha also emphasized the need to reflect on the history of the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) during its governance.

“After being out of public view for 15 days, it appears Rahul Gandhi is attempting to provoke attention with unfounded claims on social media. If he wishes to make such allegations, he should first consider the history of the UPA during its rule,” he remarked.

The BJP spokesperson challenged Congress to clarify why no substantial action was taken against Pakistan despite numerous terrorist attacks from 2004 to 2008.

“At that time, terrorist incidents occurred almost monthly, yet decisive measures were absent,” Sinha stated.

In response, Congress defended Rahul Gandhi’s statements, accusing PM Modi of cowardice. Senior Congress leader Udit Raj commented that PM Modi reacts based on external threats.

“He exhibits cowardice. When confronted by China, he retreats; when America threatens, he retreats; and again when Russia supplies oil, he retreats,” Raj claimed.

Raj also noted that Trump is coercing nations into oil purchases through threats, mentioning that the US President has often claimed to have secured a ceasefire, yet PM Modi remains silent.

“Had PM Modi attended the Sharm El Sheikh Summit in Egypt, where Trump was present, Trump would have likely boasted about achieving a ceasefire between India and Pakistan,” he remarked.

Congress MP Tariq Anwar asserted that India should never yield to external pressures, regardless of their origin.

“Our longstanding policy has been one of non-alignment, making decisions solely based on our national interests. It is inappropriate for any foreign nation to meddle in our internal matters,” he stated.

The Indian government has yet to respond to Trump’s latest assertions. Trump has characterized Prime Minister Modi as a “great man” and India as “an incredible country,” expressing his willingness to meet with the Prime Minister during the forthcoming ASEAN Summit in Malaysia.

Trump also mentioned that he has been “assured” that India would not be purchasing oil from Russia, while acknowledging the impracticality of immediate changes.