Is the Centre’s Ceasefire Decision Disappointing?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Ceasefire decision disappoints many in India.
- Concerns over Pakistan’s trustworthiness raised.
- Criticism of US involvement in Indian affairs.
- Call for accountability from the Indian government.
- Educational reforms needed in Kalaburagi.
Kalaburagi, May 12 (NationPress) The Karnataka Minister for Rural Development, Panchayat Raj, IT, and BT, Priyank Kharge, expressed his disappointment on Monday regarding the Union government's recent decision to declare a ceasefire. He stated that, despite the valiant efforts of Indian soldiers in dismantling terrorist hideouts, this announcement has left both the armed forces and the citizens of India feeling disheartened.
In a press conference in Kalaburagi, Kharge remarked, “Pakistan is not a nation that can be trusted. Our troops have conducted precise strikes and neutralized terrorist bases following assaults on our civilians. Yet, a ceasefire has been proclaimed. Who made this call? What criteria influenced this decision? What measures will be in place if the ceasefire is breached? The government needs to convene a session and present the facts to the nation.”
He emphasized that while the Kashmir conflict is a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan, it has now gained international attention due to interference from the United States.
“What authority does US President Donald Trump have to call for a ceasefire? Did you read his tweet? He referred to ‘common sense’ and commented as if advising India. Why are the Prime Minister, External Affairs Minister, and National Security Advisor silent about this? Why aren’t they clarifying the ceasefire to the public?”
Kharge further critiqued the government’s foreign policy, stating, “To have a robust foreign policy, merely embracing foreign leaders is insufficient; there must be substantial dialogue. The US has yet to condemn the terrorist acts, while nations like China and Turkey have shown their support for Pakistan.
Additionally, he noted that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has granted a loan to Pakistan, indicating that the Indian government has failed to convince the international community not to back a nation that promotes terrorism. This raises serious doubts about the efficacy of our foreign policy.”
Kharge affirmed that the Congress party stands with the Union government in safeguarding national interests.
Referring to a recent terrorist incident, he questioned, “What has happened to the terrorists responsible for the Pahalgam attack? Where are they now?”
He urged the Prime Minister to summon a parliamentary session to disclose the facts surrounding the terrorist attack and the ceasefire decision.
Expressing concern over the media's portrayal of war-related news, Kharge stated, “The media tends to glorify individuals rather than focusing on the nation’s interests and factual information. Misinformation is rampant, with panel participants and BJP spokespersons spreading falsehoods. Some have even claimed that Karachi will be taken and that Pakistan will be divided into four parts.”
Meanwhile, Kharge accepted accountability for the dismal SSLC (class 10) results in the district, stating that a strategic plan is underway to enhance educational quality. Discussions have been initiated with two NGOs from Bengaluru, and results from this initiative are expected by March next year.
In the recent Karnataka SSLC (class 10) examinations, Kalaburagi district recorded the lowest pass rate in the state, with only a 42.43 percent pass percentage.