Jaipur: Former Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot said Monday India historically maintained its independence from international influence and that it is perplexing that US President Donald Trump could declare a ‘ceasefire’ between India and Pakistan, underscoring that such decisions should remain within India’s jurisdiction.“Since former PM Indira Gandhi, India’s policy has been that there will be nothird-party intervention in India-Pakistan matters. The recent US involvement in military operations has concerned the entire nation, questioning what compelled the govt to allow a third country to intervene,” he said.Reflecting on India’s historical autonomy, Gehlot referred to the integration of Goa and Sikkim in 1961 and 1974, respectively, noting how these events demonstrated India’s ability to act independently despite international opposition. “Nehru’s strong will and the bravery of the Indian military drove the Portuguese out, leading to Goa’s integration into India,” Gehlot said.“By the time I reached university, in 1974, Sikkim was an independent monarchy under the Chogyal dynasty. The queen of Sikkim was American, which gave Sikkim US support. In 1974, Indira Gandhi’s govt initiated a campaign to merge Sikkim into India. The US pressured India and even issued warnings, but Indira Gandhi ignored these and made Sikkim a part of India,” he added, underscoring India’s historical stance against international pressure.State Congress chief Govind Singh Dotasra also said it was surprising that the US President announced the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan on social media, after which India followed with its own declaration. “Congress has demanded that the PM immediately convene an all-party meeting and a special session of Parliament to provide complete information to the public about the events and any discussions with the US,” Dotasra.
