Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized the Congress for transferring the Katchatheevu island to Sri Lanka during the 1970s, labeling it as a “callous” decision. Sharing a news article detailing the events leading to Sri Lanka’s control over the island, PM Modi distrusted the Congress party.
In a statement posted on social media platform X, PM Modi described the revelations as “eye-opening and startling,” emphasizing how they have stirred anger among Indians and reinforced skepticism towards the Congress. He accused the Congress of perpetuating a legacy of weakening India’s unity, integrity, and interests for over seven decades.
The article also alleges that former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru dismissed the issue as inconsequential and asserts that despite staunch opposition from the Opposition, the decision to relinquish the island was made. PM Modi had previously mentioned in Parliament that the Indira Gandhi government had ceded Katchatheevu Island to Sri Lanka in 1974.
During a recent rally in Tamil Nadu, PM Modi reiterated the issue, highlighting the significance of Katchatheevu Island, situated between Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka, traditionally utilized by fishermen from both nations. He emphasized that its relinquishment occurred under Indira Gandhi’s leadership.
Furthermore, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin contested PM Modi’s assertions, accusing him of misleading the public during his rally in Kanyakumari on March 15. Stalin argued that the people of Tamil Nadu were well aware of the historical context, including the DMK government’s opposition to the cession of Katchatheevu Island to Sri Lanka. Stalin’s remarks underscored the longstanding dispute over the island’s transfer and its implications for Tamil Nadu fishermen facing regional challenges.
In light of these developments, PM Modi’s comments have reignited debates surrounding India’s territorial integrity and the decisions made by past governments, prompting scrutiny of the Congress party’s actions regarding national sovereignty.
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