Trump-Modi Call Controversy: Jaishankar Tells Opposition to “Listen Up”
In a fiery exchange that quickly made headlines, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar lashed out at the Opposition in Parliament over the controversy surrounding a past phone call between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former U.S. President Donald Trump. Addressing criticism and allegations that the Modi government had fabricated claims about Trump’s request for mediation on Kashmir, Jaishankar said pointedly, “Kaan kholke sun le Opposition – jo kaha tha, wahi kaha tha.” (Listen carefully, Opposition — what was said, was exactly what was said.)
The statement came during a heated discussion in the Rajya Sabha, where opposition leaders questioned the authenticity of a 2019 claim made by Prime Minister Modi that Trump had offered to mediate the Kashmir issue between India and Pakistan. Critics had alleged that no such request was ever made and accused the government of misrepresenting facts for political advantage.
Jaishankar, known for his sharp diplomacy and precise articulation, stood firm in defense of the government. “Every word we speak, especially in matters of international relations, is weighed. We do not speak lightly. We do not need lessons in diplomacy from those who jeopardized national interest for years,” he said, referring to the Opposition’s record on foreign policy.
He emphasized that the nature of conversations between world leaders often involves sensitive language and diplomacy, which cannot always be disclosed in full detail. However, he clarified that the claim regarding Trump’s offer was based on actual conversations and not political fabrication.
His remark, “Kaan kholke sun le,” quickly trended on social media, drawing strong reactions across the political spectrum. Supporters of the BJP hailed Jaishankar’s rebuttal as a “masterclass in diplomacy,” while opposition leaders criticized the tone, calling it “undignified for a minister of his stature.”
Read more: Priyanka Gandhi Demands Answers on Pahalgam Security Void
Congress leaders demanded greater transparency on the matter, asking the government to provide proof of the said conversation if it existed. “If such a conversation took place, where is the record? Why was there no joint statement?” asked senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh.
Political analysts see Jaishankar’s retort as part of the Modi government’s broader strategy to project strength and confidence in its international dealings, especially ahead of the 2024 general elections. The emphasis on defending national integrity and asserting India’s global stature has become a recurring theme in BJP’s foreign policy rhetoric.
Read more: PM Modi Arrives in Maldives, Meets President Muizzu
This isn’t the first time Jaishankar has made headlines for his bold remarks in Parliament. Often praised for his calm demeanor and sharp wit, the former diplomat has become a prominent face of India’s foreign policy narrative, representing a break from the conventional, low-key style of previous governments.
As the debate continues to simmer, one thing is clear: Jaishankar’s “Kaan kholke sun le” has struck a chord—both as a moment of political drama and as a signal of the government’s unwavering stance on matters of national and international significance. Whether it will put the controversy to rest or further fuel opposition claims remains to be seen.
