Parliament Trumped

Tribune News Service
New Delhi, July 23

The government today rebutted US President Donald Trump’s “unexpected” claim in which he said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had asked him to mediate between India and Pakistan to resolve the Kashmir issue. The matter rocked both Houses of Parliament with the Opposition demanding PM Modi’s statement.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar made separate statements in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, saying: “No such request was made by the PM to the US President.” The issue continued to simmer outside the Lok Sabha, while the Opposition protested inside the Rajya Sabha in the post-lunch period.

Jaishankar said India’s position was that all issues with Pakistan had to be discussed bilaterally. He asserted the Simla Agreement and Lahore Declaration remained the only basis for discussion with Pakistan.

The External Affairs Minister spoke after the Opposition led by the Congress wanted the PM to reply on the matter. The Opposition walked out in protest, saying they would settle for nothing less than PM’s clarification.

In the Lok Sabha, Congress MP Manish Tewari said: “Modi should come on record and say Trump was lying. Modi must clarify if he and Trump spoke on the subject. The PM needs to clarify what the two (Modi and Trump) spoke on in Osaka (G20 meeting).”

Prof Saugata Roy of the Trinamool Congress said Trump’s statement was a violation of India’s policy to deal with Pakistan bilaterally.

The Rajya Sabha was adjourned till 2 pm following protests by Opposition members who pressed for PM’s statement. CPI’s D Raja said Trump’s statement assumed significance in light of apparent shift in India’s consistent stand. Issuance of denial by the MEA would not suffice, he added.

Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu intervened, urging members to speak in one voice as the issue concerned unity, integrity and security of the country.

No such request made: Jaishankar

I categorically state that no such request has been made by the PM to the US President... Any engagement with Pakistan will require end to cross-border terrorism. — S Jaishankar, Foreign minister

‘Reaction Surprising’ 

Surprised by reaction of India to Prez Trump’s offer of mediation to bring Pak and India to dialogue table for resolving Kashmir conflict which has held subcontinent hostage for 70 years. — Imran Khan, Pak PM

‘India betrayed’

Prez Trump says PM Modi asked him to mediate on Kashmir! If true, Modi has betrayed India’s interests & 1972 Simla pact. Weak MEA denial won’t do. — Rahul Gandhi, Cong ex-chief