The recent commentary by Indian ambassador to Ireland, Akhilesh Mishra, has sparked criticism from the Congress party, who expressed disappointment over what they perceive as a direct attack on them.
In response to Mishra's remarks, the Congress emphasized the importance of diplomatic neutrality, stating that an envoy should refrain from openly targeting the opposition.
The controversy stemmed from an editorial in The Irish Times titled 'Modi tightens his grip', which lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership and predicted a comfortable third term for him. The editorial also highlighted legal issues faced by opposition figures and the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.
The Indian embassy swiftly denounced the editorial as biased and detrimental to PM Modi, democracy, law enforcement institutions, and the Indian populace, particularly the Hindu community.
In his rebuttal, Mishra commended PM Modi's anti-corruption efforts and attributed his popularity to the public's relief from entrenched corruption, which he linked to decades of governance by a single dynastic party.
Highlighting PM Modi's widespread popularity domestically and internationally, Mishra underscored the perceived positive impact of the government's crackdown on corruption.
However, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh criticized Mishra's comments, asserting that while defending the government is acceptable, attacking the opposition crosses a line.
Describing Mishra's remarks as unprofessional and inappropriate, Ramesh called for his dismissal, alleging a breach of diplomatic protocol and service rules.
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