Bhubaneswar, May 11: Responding to recent comments by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding a ceasefire between India and Pakistan, Biju Janata Dal (BJD) Vice President Prasanna Acharya on Sunday questioned the legitimacy of such statements, asserting that only India has the authority to make such decisions.
Labeling Trump as a “third party,” Acharya underscored India's sovereignty and its ability to manage its own affairs without external interference.
“How can Trump unilaterally declare a ceasefire?” he asked. “Is he the Prime Minister or President of India? Or does he represent Pakistan? He is a third party, and it is not his place to make such declarations. The decision rests solely with India.”
He further stressed that India, as an independent and capable nation with patriotic armed forces, should not yield to pressure from any powerful country, whether the United States or Russia.
The comments came after India clarified on Saturday that the recent understanding to cease hostilities between India and Pakistan was the result of direct communication between the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of both countries—dismissing any significant role played by the U.S.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reinforced India's position, stating that the country remains firm in its stance against terrorism and that decisions on national security are made independently.
Trump’s remarks, along with earlier statements by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggesting a “neutral site” for dialogue between India and Pakistan, have drawn sharp criticism from the opposition Congress party.
Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh raised concerns about the implications of such suggestions, questioning whether India was deviating from the principles of the Simla Agreement. “Have we opened the doors to third-party mediation? Are diplomatic channels with Pakistan being reopened? What commitments have we received?” Ramesh asked.
The Congress has also called for an all-party meeting to discuss the situation following Operation Sindoor, in which India reportedly targeted and destroyed nine terror camps across the border in Pakistan.
(With ANI inputs)
