Special Correspondent: Arun Sharma, New Delhi

A high-profile technology gathering turned politically charged as Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a sharp attack on the Indian National Congress during his address at the AI Summit, accusing the opposition party of attempting to defame India on an international platform.


Speaking before a global audience, the Prime Minister said that while the world was applauding India’s technological rise and innovation-driven growth, “some people were busy staging political drama and trying to malign the nation.”


‘Congress Has Drifted from Its Core Ideology’
In a strongly worded critique, Mr. Modi alleged that today’s Congress has strayed from its foundational principles.
“The politics of division and misinformation has become their base,” he remarked, suggesting that internal dissent at a time of global recognition was “unfortunate and misplaced.”


‘World Applauds India, But Opposition Is Uncomfortable’
Highlighting India’s growing stature in artificial intelligence and digital innovation, the Prime Minister said the international community views India as a rising technological leader.


He noted that global enthusiasm around India’s AI capabilities stood in contrast to domestic political criticism, adding:
“When the world speaks about India’s achievements, every Indian feels proud. But some people choose to turn even that into a political issue.”


National Security and Defence Record Under Spotlight
The Prime Minister also targeted the Congress over its past governance record in the defence sector, alleging that previous administrations were marked by weaknesses, scandals and lack of preparedness.


He contrasted this with recent years, citing surgical strikes and decisive military operations as evidence of India’s strengthened defence posture — moves that, he said, were often questioned by the opposition.


Focus on ‘New India’ and Technological Leadership
Reiterating his government’s development agenda, Mr. Modi underlined the push for innovation, self-reliance and digital transformation as pillars of building a “New India.”


He emphasised that AI and emerging technologies are central to India’s global leadership ambitions, and urged political stakeholders to rise above partisan interests in matters of national importance.


Political Ripples Ahead of Elections
The Prime Minister’s remarks have sparked fresh debate in political circles, with analysts suggesting that the speech could shape the broader electoral narrative in the months ahead.


What began as a summit focused on artificial intelligence has, for now, ignited a renewed political confrontation — underscoring how technology, governance and electoral politics increasingly intersect in contemporary India.