New Delhi, July 28: Congress MP Deepender Singh Hooda on Monday made a sharp comment aiming at Modi government over US President Donald Trump's repeated ceasefire claims between India and Pakistan. His comments came during the debate on Operation Sindoor and Pahalgam attack in Parliament. Taking a dig at the Modi government, he said, "Donald ko chup karao, Donald ka muh band karao ya phir Hindustan mein McDonald's ko band karao." (Silence Donald, shut Donald’s mouth, or shut down McDonald’s in India).
Questions Modi Government's Silence
Hooda questioned the Indian government’s silence on the issue, implying that India should respond more strongly to such statements. U.S. President Donald Trump made the claims that he had helped broker ceasefire agreements between India and Pakistan, something he has allegedly said 26 times.
Foreign Policy
Hooda’s remark was made while criticising what he called the confused and inconsistent foreign policy of the current BJP-led government.
Referring to India's diplomatic stand, he said, “You can't decide whether to shake hands with the U.S. or stare it down. During UPA’s time, we had the courage to do both, show strength when needed and friendship when possible.”
26/11 Mumbai Terror Attacks
He praised former U.S. President Barack Obama for taking a firm stand against terrorism in Pakistan after the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, contrasting it with the current government's response to Trump’s repeated interference.
'India Not to Be Compared with Pakistan'
Hooda emphasized that India should not be weighed on the same scale as Pakistan and the U.S. must recognise this distinction. He added, “India is a major global power. The U.S. must choose what kind of relationship it wants with us.”
He further argued that if Trump keeps making such claims, the Indian government should take action, either by publicly countering the statements or by removing U.S. brands like McDonald’s to send a stronger message.
