The political exchange between External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has intensified over the latter's claim regarding Jaishankar's visit to the US in December 2024. Rahul Gandhi alleged in the Lok Sabha that the Indian government had sent Jaishankar to secure an invitation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend Donald Trump’s swearing-in ceremony. Jaishankar swiftly refuted this claim, calling it a "deliberate falsehood" and asserting that no such discussion about an invitation ever took place.
Jaishankar clarified that his visit to the US was to meet Secretary of State Antony Blinken, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, and to chair a meeting of Indian consuls general. He also mentioned that he met the incoming NSA-designate but maintained that his trip had no connection with Trump’s inauguration. Furthermore, he emphasized that it is well-known that the Indian Prime Minister does not attend such events and that India is typically represented by special envoys at foreign inaugurations.
Jaishankar accused Gandhi of making misleading statements for political advantage at the cost of India’s global image. He stated that such false claims damage India’s standing in international diplomacy. His remarks were backed by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, who challenged Gandhi to provide evidence to substantiate his statement. Rijiju questioned how Gandhi obtained such information and demanded that he disclose his source to the House, stressing that baseless allegations on sensitive matters like foreign relations could have serious implications.
Jaishankar’s presence at Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20 was also noted, where he was seated in the first row at the Capitol Rotunda. However, his presence there was not linked to any invitation for PM Modi. This political exchange highlights the broader tensions between the ruling party and the opposition, particularly regarding India’s foreign policy and international positioning.
