India-Pakistan de-escalation: Congress recalls Indira’s 1971 stance as US claims mediator role

Indira Gandhi

As India and Pakistan agreed to an immediate ceasefire, the opposition on Saturday expressed their support for the ceasefire between India and Pakistan. However, they raised concerns about the unusual statements made by the United States regarding its role in facilitating talks and mediation at a "neutral venue."

The Congress party highlighted the legacy of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, emphasizing her decisive leadership during times of crisis. The party called for an all-party meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ensure that political parties are kept informed and united in response to current events.

Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh on X shared a letter Indira wrote to then US President Richard during Bangladesh war four days before Pakistan's surrender, Ramesh said, "She ensured that there was no 'neutral site' which has now been agreed to."

This is Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's historic letter to President Nixon of Dec 12, 1971. Four days later Pakistan surrendered.
She ensured that there was no "neutral site" which has now been agreed to. pic.twitter.com/Fvvcmn6VkZ Jairam Ramesh (@Jairam_Ramesh) May 10, 2025

Ramesh stressed the importance of such a meeting, particularly in the context of recent developments, stating, "In view of the unprecedented announcements from Washington DC, there is now a need for the prime minister to chair an all-party meeting and take political parties into confidence." He also urged for a special session of Parliament to discuss the significant events over the past 18 days, starting with the devastating Pahalgam terror attack.

The announcement of the ceasefire, effective from 5 pm, was made by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, following US President Donald Trump's announcement that India and Pakistan had agreed to a "full and immediate" halt in hostilities.

Meanwhile, Congress leaders reflected on Indira Gandhi’s iconic leadership, sharing images of her alongside armed forces personnel and expressing a collective sentiment of nostalgia. Pawan Khera, head of the Congress media and publicity department, highlighted the enduring admiration for Gandhi, stating, “India misses Indira.” The party's message celebrated her "COURAGE | CONVICTION | STRENGTH," and noted her bold decisions, particularly during the 1971 war that led to the separation of East Pakistan.

Congress spokesperson Shama Mohamed remarked, “Under the leadership of former Prime Minister Smt Indira Gandhi ji, Pakistan was split into two despite direct threats from the United States. The nation truly misses her decisive leadership today!” Social media posts from Congress and its various state units continued to evoke the spirit of Indira Gandhi, reinforcing her place in the party's narrative during this critical time.

(With PTI inputs)