On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a pointed reference, criticized Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi, suggesting that certain individuals discuss foreign policy matters even when it might be detrimental to the nation. He remarked that some believe they won’t appear sophisticated unless they speak on foreign affairs.
“Some people think that discussing foreign policy makes them seem more mature. They feel compelled to talk about it, even at the risk of causing harm to the country,” PM Modi said during his speech in the Lok Sabha, responding to the debate on the motion of thanks for the President’s Address. The Prime Minister recommended the book JFK’s Forgotten Crisis, which details discussions between former Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and U.S. President John F. Kennedy, and suggested it as a valuable resource for those genuinely interested in foreign policy.
“For those who have a serious interest in understanding foreign policy and wish to contribute meaningfully in the future, I would recommend reading JFK’s Forgotten Crisis. It’s written by a distinguished scholar in foreign policy and provides insight into key moments, including the conversations between Pandit Nehru and John F. Kennedy,” said PM Modi.
He further pointed out that the book sheds light on foreign policy decisions made during a time when the country was grappling with numerous challenges. “This book highlights what was being done in the name of foreign policy at a time when the nation was facing significant difficulties. This is why I believe it is important to read,” the Prime Minister added.
In the same speech, PM Modi also took a swipe at the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and its leader, former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. He criticized some for prioritizing luxury over essential services, saying, “While some focus on building jacuzzis and fancy showers, our government is working to ensure that every household in the country has access to clean drinking water.” The Prime Minister’s remarks, which also included a pun on the word “AAP-da” aimed at the AAP and a “Sheeshmahal” jibe at Kejriwal, came just a day before the assembly elections in Delhi.