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

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."

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.