Priyanka Tiwari
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Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar recently attended an Iftar dinner hosted at the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi. The event, held to mark Pakistan's National Day on March 23, has triggered political debate and backlash.
BJP leader Shehzad Poonawalla criticized Aiyar’s presence, saying that while no one in India supports a country involved in terrorism, Congress seems to be an exception. “In 'Modi-Virodh' they are indulging in 'Desh-Virodh'... they have no hesitation in standing with those who are against India,” Poonawalla said during an interview with Times Now.
#WATCH | Delhi: Former Union Minister Mani Shankar Aiyar arrives at the Pakistan High Commission to attend the Iftar party. pic.twitter.com/itGBMqk1P7
— ANI (@ANI) March 20, 2025
Congress Accused of Favoring Pakistan
BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari also condemned the move. He claimed that Congress leaders have shown a consistent pattern of favoring Pakistan. “Whether it’s Mani Shankar Aiyar or others, their actions show they have a soft corner for Pakistan,” Bhandari stated.
India has consistently maintained that peaceful and cooperative relations with Pakistan are only possible if the neighboring country stops supporting terrorism and hostility. This policy is part of India's broader "Neighbourhood First" diplomatic approach.
Public Reaction on Social Media
The incident also generated significant discussion online. Several users on X (formerly Twitter) criticized the Congress leader for attending the Pakistan-hosted Iftar.
A user named Harshit Yadav referred to the Pakistan High Commission as Aiyar’s “second home.” Another user, Sanmoy Basu, commented that the Congress party will not regain power unless it distances itself from controversial alliances and internal leadership issues.
Mocking responses were also seen. A user named Dolli said, “Chla Gaya Sasural,” implying that the Congress leader felt at home in Pakistan’s diplomatic space. Another comment read, “Asli Ristedar Hain ye,” hinting at perceived loyalty or closeness between Congress figures and Pakistan.
