Why is Kharge Criticizing the Centre's Gaza Vote Abstention at UNGA?
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Synopsis
In a sharp critique of India's foreign policy, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge expressed concerns over the government's abstention from a pivotal UNGA vote on Gaza. He emphasized the urgent need for accountability and a reevaluation of India's stance on international conflicts, particularly in the Middle East.
Key Takeaways
- India abstained from a critical UNGA vote on Gaza ceasefire.
- Kharge criticized the government's foreign policy as in disarray.
- India stands isolated with only 19 countries abstaining.
- Congress calls for immediate humanitarian assistance to Gaza.
- India's tradition of Non-Alignment is at a crossroads.
New Delhi, June 14 (NationPress) Following India's abstention in the UN General Assembly (UNGA) from a vote on a draft resolution calling for an “immediate, unconditional and permanent” ceasefire in Gaza, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge criticized the government's approach, stating that “our Foreign Policy is in shambles”. He urged PM Modi to address the repeated errors of his External Affairs Minister and establish accountability.
As Israel continues its bombardment of Gaza, resulting in over 50,000 fatalities and millions displaced in this war-torn region, the UN General Assembly, comprising 193 members, overwhelmingly supported the resolution proposed by Spain that urged for an immediate ceasefire.
In a post on X, Kharge expressed, “It is now increasingly evident that our Foreign Policy is in shambles. Perhaps, PM Modi must now take a call on his EAM’s repeated blunders and set some accountability. 149 countries voted for a UNGA resolution for a ceasefire in Gaza. India was only one of 19 countries that abstained. We virtually stand isolated by this step.”
Reiterating the Congress party's condemnation of the brutal Hamas attacks on Israeli civilians on October 8, 2023, Kharge added, “We have consistently condemned the indiscriminate actions that included a siege of the Gaza Strip and bombings, as 60,000 people have died and there is a widespread and horrific humanitarian crisis.”
Pointing out the contradictions in Indian Foreign Policy, which now appears to be at a crossroads as New Delhi continues to advocate for dialogue between Israel and Palestine while abstaining from crucial votes, Kharge questioned, “Have we abandoned India's consistent stance advocating for a ceasefire, peace, and dialogue in the Middle East and West Asia?”
“This position is deeply rooted in our long-standing tradition of Non-Alignment and moral diplomacy, through which India has always championed justice and peace in international conflicts,” he emphasized.
“On October 19, 2023, the Indian National Congress had already called for an immediate ceasefire and for humanitarian assistance to the beleaguered and dispossessed people of Gaza. India cannot stand by silently or passively while the region suffers horrific violence, humanitarian catastrophe, and increasing instability,” he concluded.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the complexities of India's foreign policy decisions. The abstention from the UNGA vote reflects a strategic balancing act, but it also raises valid concerns about accountability and the need for a clear stance in humanitarian crises. The nation must navigate these challenges with sensitivity and a commitment to peace.
NationPress
14/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the UNGA resolution about?
The UNGA resolution demanded an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire in Gaza amidst ongoing violence.
How many countries abstained from the vote?
India was one of 19 countries that abstained from the vote.
What is Kharge's stance on India's foreign policy?
Kharge believes that India's foreign policy is currently in disarray and requires accountability from PM Modi.
What did the Congress party call for?
The Congress party has called for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian assistance for the people of Gaza.
What historical stance does Kharge reference?
Kharge references India's long-standing tradition of Non-Alignment and moral diplomacy in international conflicts.
