Congress Rebuffs 'Self-Styled Vishwaguru' Over Pakistan's Mediation Role in West Asia The Indian National Congress criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, for its handling of diplomatic efforts in the West Asia region, accusing it of failing to match Pakistan's strategic engagement. The party claimed that despite India's military successes in Operation Sindoor, Pakistan's diplomatic initiatives and narrative management have been "markedly superior to that of the Modi government." Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh, speaking on X, stated that reports suggesting Pakistan is acting as an intermediary between the U.S.-Israel alliance and Iran represent a "severe setback" for India. He attributed this to Modi's alleged overconfidence, referring to him as a "self-styled Vishwaguru" (global guru). Ramesh emphasized that Pakistan's role in facilitating dialogue between the U.S. and Iran, despite its own political and economic challenges, highlights a stark contrast to India's diplomatic approach. The Congress leader also criticized Modi's recent visit to Israel, which coincided with U.S.-Israel airstrikes on Iran. Ramesh argued that the timing of the visit undermined India's potential to mediate tensions, calling it a "disastrous choice" that has weakened India's position. He further accused the Modi government of "huglomacy" (a term implying excessive focus on military power over diplomacy) and warned that the country is paying a price for this approach. Ramesh highlighted Pakistan's improved global standing, noting that President Donald Trump had engaged with Pakistani officials, including Field Marshall Asim Munir, despite Pakistan's past instability.#pakistan #narendra_modi #indian_national_congress #jairam_ramesh #brics_summit
