New Delhi, March 17, 2025 – A political firestorm has erupted in India following Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s remarks about the relevance of global organizations during a recent podcast. The Indian National Congress has launched a scathing attack, accusing the Prime Minister of “speaking Trump’s language” and undermining the importance of multilateralism.
The controversy stems from PM Modi’s interaction with American podcaster and computer scientist Lex Fridman, where he discussed the need for global organizations to adapt to changing times. He highlighted a growing global debate concerning the effectiveness of institutions like the United Nations.
Congress leaders, particularly General Secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh, have strongly condemned the Prime Minister’s statements. They allege that Modi is attempting to curry favor with former US President Donald Trump by mirroring his critical stance on international bodies.
Key Points of Contention:
- Echoing Trump’s Views:
- Congress argues that PM Modi’s remarks align closely with Trump’s past criticisms of global organizations, suggesting a deliberate attempt to maintain a positive relationship.
- Ramesh stated, “Mr. Modi clearly is going out of his way to keep Mr. Trump in good humour. He says international organisations, from which India has benefited immensely, have become irrelevant. This is the US President’s language.”
- Relevance of Global Institutions:
- Congress leaders questioned the Prime Minister’s assertion that these organizations have become irrelevant, citing India’s significant benefits from institutions like the World Health Organization (WHO), the World Trade Organization (WTO), and the United Nations.
- Ramesh asked, “Is the WHO not good for India and is the WTO not good for India,” he asked. “Is the Paris Agreement on Climate Change not good for India? Has the UN, inspite of all its weaknesses, not provided for opportunities for Indian peacekeepers abroad?”
- Multilateralism vs. National Interests:
- The debate has reignited discussions about the balance between pursuing national interests and engaging in multilateral cooperation.
- Congress emphasizes that while reforms within these organizations may be necessary, a wholesale condemnation is unwarranted. They defend the importance of multilateralism.
- PM Modi’s statements during the podcast:
- During the podcast, PM Modi expressed that he shares a bond of mutual trust with president Trump.
- He also hailed president Trump as a man of courage who took his own decisions and was unwaveringly dedicated to the United States.
Political Ramifications:
This controversy has further intensified the already charged political atmosphere in India. It has sparked widespread debate across various media platforms and social media.
- The opposition’s strong reaction underscores the political sensitivity surrounding India’s foreign policy and its relationships with global powers.
- The debate also highlights differing perspectives on the role of international organizations in an increasingly multipolar world.
The broader context:
It is important to note that discussions about the reform of global organizations are not new. There have been consistent calls for these institutions to adapt to the changing geopolitical landscape. However, the Congress party is obviously opposing the way that PM Modi has approached the subject.
This situation reveals the complex interplay between domestic politics and foreign policy, and how statements made on the international stage can have significant repercussions at home.
