New Delhi is leaving no stone unturned to ensure the safety of its citizens trapped amid escalating tensions in the Middle East following the reported death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei in strikes by the US and Israel. BJP spokesperson Shahnawaz Hussain emphasized on Sunday that India stands firmly for peace, not war.
Speaking exclusively to IANS, Hussain detailed the government’s proactive measures. ‘Wherever Indians are in these conflict zones, our government is deeply concerned for their welfare. Our embassies are in constant touch with our people,’ he said. He underscored India’s longstanding philosophy: ‘India has always been a nation of Buddha, not of war. We advocate for peace and are working tirelessly towards it.’
Hussain highlighted the massive Indian diaspora in Gulf countries, noting that the government is committed to preventing any hardships for them. This comes as regional instability threatens to disrupt lives and livelihoods.
Turning to domestic politics, Hussain sharply criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for allegedly threatening his own party worker. ‘Rahul Gandhi, as Leader of Opposition, is publicly threatening his own cadre from the stage, warning that he and Mallikarjun Kharge will ‘fix’ them. This is a sorry state for the Congress party,’ he remarked.
He also condemned the Youth Congress’s topless protest at Delhi’s AI Summit, calling it a betrayal of national interests. ‘With global leaders present, their shameless display demands a probe into the conspiracy behind it,’ Hussain demanded.
On AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal, Hussain dismissed his theatrics amid legal battles. ‘No matter the drama, agencies have the right to appeal higher courts. Kejriwal’s government claims innocence in the liquor scam, but Delhi has seen countless scandals under them. He needs to answer many questions despite self-certifying his honesty.’
In a positive note, Hussain extended birthday wishes to Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, praying for Bihar’s continued development under his leadership.