Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on the Centre, alleging that India’s foreign policy has become a “personal foreign policy” of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and calling it a “universal joke” on the global stage.
Speaking to reporters at the Parliament House complex, Gandhi questioned the government’s handling of international relations at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions, particularly in West Asia.
देश की विदेश नीति आज compromised है, क्योंकि PM मोदी खुद compromised हैं।
मोदी सिर्फ़ वही करते हैं जो अमेरिका और इज़राइल उनसे करवाना चाहते हैं।
मोदी कभी भी भारत के हित के फैसले ले ही नहीं सकते – और ये साफ दिख रहा है। pic.twitter.com/fieCdr4RY0
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) March 24, 2026
Allegations of “Compromised” Leadership
Gandhi alleged that India’s diplomatic stance is weakened due to what he described as “compromised” leadership at the top. He further claimed that former U.S. President Donald Trump “knows exactly what Mr. Modi can and cannot do,” suggesting limitations in India’s strategic autonomy.
Claims of External Influence
The Congress leader also accused the government of aligning its foreign policy decisions with the interests of global powers such as the United States and Israel, rather than prioritising domestic concerns.
According to Gandhi, such an approach risks undermining India’s independent voice in global affairs and weakens its long-standing diplomatic positioning.
Concerns Over Economic Impact
Linking diplomacy to domestic consequences, Gandhi warned that “structural blunders” in foreign policy could directly impact citizens through rising prices of LPG, petrol, and fertilisers.
His remarks come amid ongoing tensions in West Asia, which have raised concerns over potential disruptions in global energy supply chains.
Criticism of COVID-19 Reference
Gandhi also criticised the Prime Minister’s comparison of the current geopolitical crisis with the COVID-19 pandemic, stating that such references overlook the human toll and suffering experienced during that period.
Political Sparring After PM’s Rajya Sabha Address
The remarks follow Prime Minister Modi’s recent address in the Rajya Sabha, where he called for unity and calm, emphasising India’s economic resilience and preparedness, including strategic petroleum reserves.
While the government has highlighted its efforts to ensure energy security and stability, the opposition has accused it of deviating from India’s traditional policy of strategic autonomy.
The exchange underscores intensifying political contestation over India’s foreign policy direction at a time when global uncertainties continue to mount.
