Bengaluru, May 15

Opposition Leader R Ashoka demanded that the All India Congress Committee (AICC) clearly announce its position on whether it supports war or peace, as some Congress leaders advocate for war while others call for peace.

Speaking at a press conference, Ashoka criticised the Congress, recalling that during its rule, it had begged for aid from the US. He pointed out that during the Mumbai terror attack, which killed 175 people, the Manmohan Singh-led UPA government failed to respond. In contrast, Prime Minister Modi has given a fitting reply, he said. 

Foreign Minister S Jaishankar has already ruled out any mediation, yet Congress leaders are "searching for stones in curd," Ashoka said. While some Congress leaders initially opposed war and favoured peace, they later called for war. 

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, and Mallikarjun Kharge welcomed a ceasefire, but others in Congress insisted on continuing the war. Ashoka said this indicates factions within the party, despite warnings from Jairam Ramesh.

He urged the AICC to clearly state its stance on whether it wants war, peace, or negotiations before discussing other issues. 

Meanwhile, Labour Minister Santosh Lad lashed out at Modi, demanding a "clear reason" for reaching the understanding of a "ceasefire" between India and Pakistan.

"We don't accept your (Modi's) speech, just tell us clearly, what was the reason for the ceasefire? Where are those who attacked in Pahalgam? PM must speak about it," Lad told reporters here.