'Congress criticises India's ambassador to Ireland for critical comments, labels him ‘Party Apparatchik’
- In Reports
- 11:20 AM, Apr 17, 2024
- Myind Staff
The Congress strongly objected to the criticism levelled against it by the Indian envoy to Ireland in response to an editorial in an Irish daily. They labelled the envoy's manner of openly attacking opposition parties akin to that of a "party apparatchik" as "disgraceful behaviour" and called for the ambassador's dismissal.
Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh criticised Indian Ambassador Akhilesh Mishra for his remarks in response to The Irish Times' editorial, which the embassy deemed as "highly biased and prejudiced". The editorial was accused of casting aspersions on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Indian democracy, law enforcement institutions, and the Hindu-majority population of India.
In his response, Mishra asserted that The Irish Times' perspective on the Indian election, titled "Modi tightens his grip," fails to acknowledge Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's unprecedented popularity and recognition, both domestically and internationally. Mishra attributed this broad appeal to Modi's impeccable personal character and integrity, along with his leadership in fostering innovative, inclusive governance and sustainable development.
The ambassador wrote, “that the ongoing battle against the deeply entrenched ecosystem of corruption, attributed to the 55-year rule, including the initial 30 years by a single dynastic party in India, constitutes a significant factor contributing to Mr Modi’s increasing popularity."
Critiquing the envoy's comments, Ramesh, Congress general secretary in charge of communications, stated, "While defending the Government of India is anticipated, openly targeting opposition parties in such a manner, akin to a party apparatchik, is unexpected from an Ambassador, even if appointed for political reasons."
In a later post, it was mentioned, "I stand corrected. This Ambassador is, indeed, a career diplomat, amplifying the shame, disgrace, and utter unacceptability of his comments. He has, without question, breached service rules and should be promptly sacked."
"The Congress leader criticised the behaviour as unprofessional and disgraceful, remarking that it seems to be in line with the typical conduct associated with Modi's administration," stated.
On X, the embassy shared the envoy's response, stating, "Ambassador @AkhileshIFS issued a rejoinder to @IrishTimes' editorial titled 'Modi tightens his grip' dated April 11, 2024. The rejoinder criticised the editorial for its perceived bias and prejudice, particularly towards Prime Minister of India, Shri @narendramodi, Indian democracy, law enforcement institutions, and the 'Hindu-majority' populace of India."
Image Source: ANI
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