Tharoor backs PM Modi's G7 message; BJP corners Rahul Gandhi
What's the story
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has backed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's G7 message on the safety of Indian sailors, giving the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ammunition to attack Rahul Gandhi. Tharoor said Modi raised India's concerns with United States President Donald Trump during their bilateral meeting at the G7 Summit in Evian, France. He said Modi emphasized that civilian sailors shouldn't be targets in wartime: "PM Modi made his point clear both in the public and private meetings with the President."
Party criticism
Congress attacks PM over seafarers' deaths
Tharoor's endorsement comes after the Congress criticized PM Modi for not addressing the deaths of three Indian seafarers killed in a US strike. The opposition party alleged that PM Modi remained silent on this issue publicly. The opposition party also questioned why no apology or regret was sought from Washington.
Political fallout
BJP seizes opportunity to target Rahul Gandhi
The BJP has seized Tharoor's comments to launch an attack on Rahul Gandhi. BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari said, "Shashi Tharoor has exposed Rahul Gandhi. Congress leaders are openly praising PM @narendramodi ji's diplomacy!" He added that when it comes to protecting India's national interest, PM Modi comes first, while Rahul Gandhi "leaves everyone behind."
Twitter Post
BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari targets Rahul Gandhi
Shashi Tharoor exposes Rahul Gandhi.
— Pradeep Bhandari(प्रदीप भंडारी)🇮🇳 (@pradip103) June 20, 2026
Congress Leader praises PM @narendramodi Ji’s diplomacy.
When it Comes to Protecting India's National Interest PM Modi comes first;
When it comes to speaking against India's National interest Rahul Gandhi leaves everyone behind! pic.twitter.com/zJIr5RiTRh
Safety 1st
What we know about Trump-PM Modi meeting at G7
During the meeting with President Trump, PM Modi raised concerns about the safety of Indian seafarers in the Gulf region. He stressed that their safety is a priority amid ongoing developments in this area. President Trump called PM Modi a "good-looking guy" and a "tough negotiator," highlighting their diplomatic rapport during this high-profile meeting.