Did Ashok Gehlot Challenge the Centre over Trump's Claims?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Ashok Gehlot questions the government’s silence on Trump’s mediation claims.
- The importance of acknowledging mistakes in diplomatic relations.
- Concerns over the credibility of the government's statements.
- The dismissal of Congress's nominations raises questions of transparency.
- The ruling BJP is accused of attempting to weaken the opposition.
Jaipur, May 19 (NationPress) Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot took aim at the Central government on Monday over the ongoing debate concerning US President Donald Trump's claims of mediating between India and Pakistan following Operation Sindoor.
“The government is still not willing to acknowledge that a mistake occurred. Who is Trump to meddle in our bilateral relations? The government should have firmly stated that no third party is necessary between India and Pakistan. Instead, they chose silence and are now engaged in damage control through initiatives like the Tiranga Yatra,” the former Chief Minister remarked.
He further raised doubts about the reliability of the Central government’s claims, stating, “Now Trump asserts he acted as a mediator, while the Indian government offers a different narrative. It remains uncertain who is being truthful. The government needs to clarify its position to the public.”
Concerning the controversy involving the MPs delegation set to visit various nations to present India's perspective on terrorism emanating from Pakistan, he noted that the Congress party had put forth names in good faith, but the government dismissed them without justification.
“They engaged with the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, giving the impression that our suggestions were being valued. However, they proceeded to select four different names, ignoring our proposals,” he expressed.
He added that Congress MP Shashi Tharoor is a respected leader within the party, having previously served as Minister of State for External Affairs.
“While he is indeed a qualified individual, if any offer arises from the government or an opposition party, it is his responsibility to first consult the party leadership. Had he done so, this controversy could have been avoided,” he commented.
Gehlot accused the ruling BJP of attempting to fragment the opposition through such tactics.
“Even regarding sensitive issues like this, they strive to weaken the opposition. This is not a healthy political approach. Following the Pahalgam terror attack, the entire nation stood united. In such critical times, efforts to instigate division are regrettable and demonstrate the BJP's ongoing political mischief,” he concluded.