A warm, candid evening unfolded as PM Modi connected with MPs, sparking hope and debate over India’s global diplomatic push.
New Delhi: A refreshing breeze of camaraderie swept through the capital on Tuesday evening as Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted an all-party delegation at his residence. The meeting, far from the usual stiff formalities, was a vibrant exchange of experiences from MPs’ recent foreign visits under the Operation Sindoor Outreach. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor described it as a “lively, informal” gathering, where Modi’s warmth and humility shone for over an hour. Yet, beneath the bonhomie, a subtle undercurrent of strategic intent pulsed—India’s bid to rally global support against state-sponsored terrorism.
A Walk in the Lawn, A Step Toward Unity
Modi, with his signature charm, strolled across the lush lawns, mingling with MPs at different tables. Tharoor shared how the PM listened intently, encouraging candid conversations. “It wasn’t a report-presentation drill,” Tharoor quipped, hinting at the free-flowing dialogue. MPs from various parties echoed this sentiment, praising the meeting’s open vibe. But the warmth didn’t mask the meeting’s core: forging a global narrative against terrorism, particularly targeting Pakistan’s alleged role. The MPs’ foreign tours, aimed at building international alliances, were the evening’s unspoken triumph.
Manish Tewari’s Call to Action
Congress MP Manish Tewari struck a fiercer tone, urging the Ministry of External Affairs to capitalize on the “seeds sown” abroad. “We’ve laid the foundation for a global coalition against states that weaponize terrorism,” he declared. Tewari’s words carried a sense of urgency, reflecting the MPs’ shared resolve to isolate nations like Pakistan on the world stage. He revealed that Modi not only listened but shared his own insights, making the dialogue “meaningful yet relaxed.” The contrast between the informal setting and the weighty agenda added a layer of intrigue to the evening.
A Missing Voice: Owaisi’s Absence
The meeting, however, wasn’t without its hiccups. AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi’s absence raised eyebrows. Speaking to ANI from Dubai, Owaisi cited a medical emergency involving a close friend and relative. “I informed my delegation leader, Baijayant Panda,” he clarified, dispelling rumors of a snub. His absence, though justified, left a void in the diverse voices Modi sought to unite. The incident sparked whispers about the challenges of maintaining all-party unity in such high-stakes initiatives.
Promises of Friendship and Action
Aam Aadmi Party MP Vikramjit Singh Sahni painted a hopeful picture, sharing Modi’s assurance of continued engagements. “The PM promised to build Maitri Manch (friendship platforms) and invite global think tanks to India,” Sahni said, his voice brimming with optimism. The pledge to foster dialogue with international intellectuals added a forward-looking dimension to the meeting. Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party MP Rajeev Rai beamed with pride as he presented a report on his delegation’s visits. “The PM appreciated it,” Rai said, noting that every country they visited condemned the recent Pahalgam terror attack and pledged support for India’s anti-terror fight.
A Strategic Masterstroke or a Feel-Good Event?
The meeting’s informal tone belied its strategic depth. A recent study by the Observer Research Foundation (ORF) underscores the importance of parliamentary diplomacy in shaping global perceptions. The MPs’ foreign tours, part of Operation Sindoor Outreach, have already garnered attention, with over 15 countries expressing solidarity against terrorism, per government sources. Yet, skepticism lingers. Some analysts argue the outreach risks being a diplomatic show unless followed by concrete actions, like sanctions on terror-sponsoring states. The contrast between the evening’s warmth and the hard road ahead creates a compelling narrative—one of hope tempered by challenges.
The Emotional Highs and Lows
For the MPs, the meeting was a rare moment of unity in India’s polarized political landscape. Tharoor’s words captured the emotional high: “Every country urged us to keep these visits going. It’s a step toward global goodwill.” But Tewari’s stark warning about terrorism’s looming threat brought a sobering reality check. The evening oscillated between pride in India’s diplomatic strides and the grim resolve to confront its enemies. This emotional rollercoaster made the meeting more than a routine event—it was a spark of hope, a call to action, and a reminder of the battles ahead.