Outrage erupted across political lines after Congress veteran Prithviraj Chavan dropped a bombshell during a rally, openly asking if Donald Trump plans to ‘kidnap’ Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The former CM’s hyperbolic query has ignited a firestorm, exposing deep rifts in India’s opposition strategy against the Modi government’s foreign policy.
Speaking to a cheering crowd in Maharashtra, Chavan didn’t mince words. He mocked Modi’s much-publicized bromance with Trump, questioning the Prime Minister’s judgment in cozying up to the unpredictable American leader. ‘Kya Trump hamare Pradhan Mantri ka apharan karenge?’ (Will Trump kidnap our Prime Minister?), he thundered, eliciting laughter and applause from supporters.
This isn’t isolated rhetoric. Chavan has long criticized Modi’s leadership style, accusing him of prioritizing global selfies over domestic issues like farmer distress and unemployment. The Trump reference taps into recent events: Modi’s congratulatory tweet to Trump post-election, their shared ‘Howdy Modi’ event memories, and whispers of upcoming summits.
Critics within Congress worry the statement crosses into absurdity, potentially alienating moderate voters. Yet, party insiders see it as genius – a viral soundbite designed to cut through election noise. Social media is ablaze, with #TrumpKidnapsModi trending alongside memes lampooning the PM’s international jaunts.
The ruling alliance hit back hard. BJP spokespersons accused Chavan of treasonous talk, demanding Congress leadership disavow him. Home Minister Amit Shah tweeted that such ‘anti-national’ narratives weaken India’s position globally. Legal eagles speculate FIRs might follow under sedition laws.
As Maharashtra gears up for polls, this episode reveals opposition’s playbook: amplify controversies, no matter how outlandish, to unsettle the frontrunner. Whether Chavan’s gamble pays off or flops remains to be seen, but one thing’s clear – Indian politics just got weirder, blending Trump Tower drama with Delhi’s power games.