Priyanka Gandhi Calls for Parliamentary Debate on West Asia Crisis, Criticises PM’s Statement
Congress leader says PM Modi’s remarks lacked new details; opposition questions government’s stance on US-Israel strikes on Iran.
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Monday urged the government to hold a detailed discussion in Parliament on the ongoing situation in West Asia, saying that Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not offer any new insights in his recent address in the Lok Sabha.
Speaking to reporters, the Congress general secretary said the opposition had already submitted a notice seeking a debate. She stressed that such a discussion would allow all parties to present their views and respond to the government’s position. “It would be good if a proper discussion takes place in Parliament,” she said.
In his statement, Modi described the situation in West Asia as “worrisome,” pointing to its potential impact on the global economy and people’s livelihoods. He assured that the government remains alert and prepared to take necessary steps, with the safety of Indian citizens as a top priority.
The Prime Minister also highlighted disruptions in cargo movement through the Strait of Hormuz since the conflict began. He noted that India, which imports around 60% of its LPG requirements, is working to manage supply challenges by prioritising domestic availability and increasing local production.
According to Modi, the conflict has created multiple challenges, including economic pressures, humanitarian concerns, and national security risks.
However, opposition leaders, particularly from the Indian National Congress, have criticised the government’s response to the recent US-Israel military strikes on Iran. They described the Centre’s reaction as subdued and lacking clarity.
Senior Congress figures including Jairam Ramesh, Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and Salman Khurshid accused the government of not clearly condemning the strikes or addressing the reported killing of Iran’s leadership.
They argued that the government’s stance reflects a departure from India’s traditional foreign policy principles such as sovereignty and strategic autonomy. Some leaders also suggested that India appeared hesitant to criticise its ties with the United States and Israel, while responding more quickly to Iran’s counter-actions.
Additionally, opposition members raised concerns over the timing of Modi’s recent visit to Israel before the escalation, saying it may have created an impression of tacit support. They also pointed out that Parliament initially did not include a condolence reference for Iran’s top leadership.
The issue is likely to remain a key point of political debate as tensions in West Asia continue.
