Amid growing criticism from the Congress party over Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ongoing foreign visits, one of its key allies has come to his defence, emphasising that national interests should take precedence over politics.
NCP (SP) leader Sharad Pawar praised Modi for working to uphold India’s international prestige. He made the remarks at a gratitude and fellowship event for former state and district office-bearers, organised by the Pune-based Lakshmanrao Gutte Rural Development Foundation.
“Prime Minister Modi is working to protect the country’s prestige abroad. We may have different political views, but when it comes to the nation’s honor, political differences should not come in the way,” Pawar said.
The former Union minister added that whenever there is a chance to work collectively for the national interest, everyone should join with a shared purpose and help strengthen the country's prestige.
The Congress has criticised Modi for embarking on a five-nation tour shortly after urging citizens to refrain from travelling abroad.
“Modi asks people not to purchase gold, to switch to electric vehicles, and to avoid travelling abroad, yet he immediately departs on an international tour,” Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said. He also warned of an impending economic crisis, adding, “A severe economic storm is coming, unlike anything we have experienced before, while the tycoons remain untouched.”
Other opposition parties, including Shiv Sena (UBT) and the Aam Aadmi Party, have also questioned Modi’s foreign travel amid the country’s current challenges.