Mallikarjun Kharge Slams Modi Govt Over “Neglect” of India’s Strategic Interests
Congress President questions government’s silence on Iranian warship attack, maritime safety, and energy security.
New Delhi, Mar 5: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday sharply criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the government’s handling of the escalating Middle East crisis, terming it a “reckless abdication of India’s strategic and national interests.” He accused the Prime Minister of compromising India’s foreign policy and remaining silent amid a humanitarian and geopolitical crisis.
In a detailed post on X, Kharge raised concerns over the torpedo attack on an Iranian warship, a guest of India, returning from the International Fleet Review 2026. “No statement of concern or condolence. PM Modi remains mute,” he said, questioning the government’s credibility on its maritime doctrines such as MAHASAGAR and India’s role as a “Net Security Provider” in the Indian Ocean Region.
Kharge also highlighted the plight of Indian nationals and sailors in the Gulf, pointing out that 38 Indian-flagged commercial ships and over 1,100 sailors remain stranded in the Gulf of Hormuz. He noted that at least two sailors, including Captain Ashish Kumar, have died, and criticized the absence of a coordinated rescue or relief operation.
Energy security and trade disruptions were additional areas of concern raised by Kharge. With India reportedly having only 25 days of crude and oil stocks, he questioned the government’s contingency plans, especially in light of decisions affecting Russian oil imports. He also raised alarms over the safety of the one crore Indians residing in Gulf countries, including medical students who have shared urgent appeals for help.
Kharge concluded by asserting that Modi’s “surrender” in the face of the crisis undermines India’s strategic interests, damages its foreign policy, and diminishes the nation’s global standing.
The remarks follow similar criticism from Rahul Gandhi, who accused PM Modi of remaining silent after the U.S. submarine sank the Iranian warship IRIS Dena near Sri Lanka. Around 180 people were onboard; Sri Lanka’s navy recovered 87 bodies and rescued 32 individuals, who were admitted to a hospital in Galle.
