Congress Slams PM Modi’s PTI Interview

The Congress party has strongly criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent interview with news agency PTI, calling it a “scripted” and “public relations exercise.” The party alleged that the interview was aimed at shifting attention away from ongoing criticism over the Union Budget and issues related to farmers and the India-US trade deal.

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said the timing of the interview was significant. According to him, the Prime Minister chose to speak after facing questions over the Budget and criticism from the Opposition in Parliament.

In a statement posted on social media, Ramesh claimed the Budget had failed to impress markets and investors. He alleged that the interview was an attempt to manage headlines and change the political narrative.

Ramesh also raised concerns about the government’s approach to the trade deal with the United States and issues affecting farmers. He alleged that the Prime Minister was under pressure over these matters and was using media outreach to divert public attention.

He further described the interview as “carefully scripted” and questioned its intent.

Meanwhile, in the PTI interview, Prime Minister Modi defended his government’s economic policies. He said the private sector would play a decisive role in driving India’s next phase of growth. According to him, reforms have been central to his government’s agenda “in letter and spirit.”

The Prime Minister said India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation, or “Viksit Bharat,” would depend on bold investments by industry in innovation and global competitiveness.

Responding to criticism of the Union Budget, PM Modi said it was not prepared out of compulsion. He described it as a sign that India is ready for the next stage of development. He also stated that none of his government’s budgets were routine financial documents, but reflected long-term planning.

Highlighting India’s digital progress, the Prime Minister said the country has become a global leader in digital transactions through platforms such as UPI. He added that the expansion of data centres could generate significant employment opportunities.

On infrastructure, PM Modi said India is witnessing one of the largest infrastructure pushes in its history. He also assured that the government would continue efforts to modernise and strengthen the country’s defence forces.

The Prime Minister criticised the record of the previous UPA government, stating that negotiations during its tenure often began but failed to produce meaningful outcomes.

He further said political stability and policy predictability have helped restore investor confidence in India. The welfare of women, he added, remains a guiding principle behind government decisions.

The exchange reflects continuing political tensions between the ruling government and the Opposition, particularly over economic policy, trade agreements and agricultural concerns.

As Parliament sessions continue and debates over economic reforms intensify, both sides appear set to sharpen their positions on issues ranging from investor confidence to farmer welfare.