The Indian politics is abuzz with demands for transparency and accountability following the recent ceasefire announcement between India and Pakistan, which was first disclosed by US President Donald Trump. Opposition leaders have expressed deep concern over what they perceive as an unprecedented instance of foreign interference in India’s foreign policy decisions.

In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, reiterated the collective request of opposition parties to convene a special session of Parliament. Gandhi emphasized the need to discuss the Pahalgam terror attack, Operation Sindoor, and the ceasefire announcement made by President Trump. He stated, “It is crucial for the people and their representatives to discuss these events and demonstrate our collective resolve to meet the challenges ahead.”

Echoing this sentiment, Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, also wrote to the Prime Minister, underscoring the importance of parliamentary discourse on these critical issues. Kharge highlighted the necessity of addressing the developments, especially given the ceasefire announcement originating from Washington, D.C., rather than New Delhi.

The ceasefire, brokered by the United States, aimed to halt escalating hostilities between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack. However, the truce was short-lived, with reports of violations surfacing within hours. Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri accused Pakistan of breaching the agreement, stating that the Indian Army is responding appropriately to these intrusions.

Congress leader Sachin Pilot expressed surprise over the U.S.’s role in announcing the ceasefire, suggesting it could be an attempt to internationalise the Kashmir issue. He called for a reiteration of the 1994 parliamentary resolution asserting that Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India.

Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal criticised the government’s silence on the matter, demanding a special Parliament session and an all-party meeting with the Prime Minister’s presence. He questioned the lack of information provided to Parliament regarding the ceasefire and the circumstances leading to its announcement by a foreign leader.

Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera also voiced concerns over the government’s handling of the situation, emphasising the need for transparency and unity in addressing national security challenges. He remarked that the country learned about the ceasefire through a tweet by President Trump, highlighting a communication gap between the government and its citizens.

The opposition’s demand for a special Parliament session reflects broader apprehensions about maintaining India’s sovereignty and the traditional stance against third-party mediation in its bilateral affairs.