US Singer Mary Millben Confronts Rahul Gandhi Over PM Modi Criticism: "Return To Your I Hate India Tour"

American singer Mary Millben strongly criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday regarding his comments about Prime Minister Narendra Modi, suggesting that Gandhi should return to his "I hate India tour." Millben, who has frequently expressed admiration for PM Modi, stated that the Congress leader lacks the necessary "acumen to become the Prime Minister."

Millben's critique followed Gandhi's post on X where he claimed PM Modi is "frightened of US President Donald Trump." Gandhi alleged that the Prime Minister "allows" Trump to decide India's position on Russian oil purchases, continues to send congratulatory messages despite being repeatedly snubbed, and "does not contradict" the US President regarding Operation Sindoor.

In response, Millben defended PM Modi, stating, "You are wrong, @RahulGandhi. PM @narendramodi is not afraid of President Trump. PM Modi understands the long game, and his diplomacy with the US is strategic. Just as @POTUS will always put America's interests first, so will PM Modi do what is best for India. And I applaud that. That's what Heads of State do."

The singer emphasized that both PM Modi and Trump do and say "what is best for their country" - a concept she suggested Gandhi cannot comprehend.

"I don't expect you to understand this type of leadership because you don't possess the acumen to be the PM of India. Best to return to your 'I hate India' tour that has an audience of one - you," she added.

Millben, who works as a singer, actor, and cultural ambassador, first met PM Modi in June 2023 during his state visit to the United States. She performed the Indian national anthem at the Ronald Reagan building and subsequently touched PM Modi's feet seeking his blessings - a moment that received global attention.

Regarding the context of the dispute, Trump recently claimed that PM Modi had assured him India would cease purchasing oil from Russia, which Trump cited as the reason behind his tariff measures against New Delhi. "He's assured me there will be no oil purchases from Russia. He can't do it immediately. It's a little bit of a process, but the process is going to be over soon," Trump stated.

India has not confirmed making any such commitment.

Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal addressed the claim by stating that India's consistent priority is to "safeguard the interests of the Indian consumer in a volatile energy scenario."

"India is a significant importer of oil and gas. It has been our consistent priority to safeguard the interests of the Indian consumer in a volatile energy scenario. Our import policies are guided entirely by this objective. Ensuring stable energy prices and secured supplies have been the twin goals of our energy policy. This includes broad-basing our energy sourcing and diversifying as appropriate to meet market conditions," Jaiswal explained.

He further noted, "Where the US is concerned, we have for many years sought to expand our energy procurement. This has steadily progressed in the last decade. The current Administration has shown interest in deepening energy cooperation with India. Discussions are ongoing."