Defence minister claims international image campaign cannot reverse declining credibility
ISLAMABAD: Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif on Friday claimed that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is facing increasing political pressure both domestically and internationally, arguing that recent developments have weakened his public standing.
In a post shared on social media platform X, Asif said criticism directed at him by the Indian premier would not resolve India’s political challenges or restore Modi’s international reputation. He asserted that personal remarks against him would not change what he described as growing scrutiny of the Indian leader’s leadership and global image.
The defence minister further claimed that India’s opposition leader Rahul Gandhi had also questioned the authenticity of international honours and recognitions received by Modi. According to Asif, Gandhi alleged that some of the awards were either generated through artificial intelligence or carefully managed to project the image of a global statesman.
Remarks target Modi’s international image
Continuing his criticism, Asif argued that the controversy surrounding the awards had instead damaged Modi’s credibility on the global stage. He claimed the Indian prime minister’s international reputation had suffered rather than improved amid the ongoing debate.
The minister also referred to a report by British newspaper The Guardian, saying the publication had raised questions regarding the credibility of some international recognitions associated with Modi. However, he did not provide additional details or specific references in his statement.
Political criticism continues
Asif maintained that attempts to strengthen Modi’s international profile through overseas honours would not address the political challenges he allegedly faces within India. He described the reported efforts to secure international recognition as an attempt to stabilise what he called a weakening domestic reputation.
The remarks come amid continuing exchanges between political leaders in Pakistan and India following recent regional tensions, with both sides frequently using public statements and social media platforms to criticise each other’s policies and leadership.
Neither the Indian government nor Prime Minister Narendra Modi immediately responded publicly to Asif’s latest comments.
