Hyderabad

AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi on Friday called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take an explicit stand against the ongoing conflict in West Asia, arguing that India should openly declare the war as “wrong.”

Addressing a gathering at the historic Makkah Masjid, Owaisi criticised what he described as a shift from India’s traditionally neutral foreign policy in the region. He alleged that Modi had grown closer to Benjamin Netanyahu and Donald Trump, which, according to him, weakened India’s ability to act as a balanced voice.

Call for neutrality and stronger diplomacy

Owaisi said India historically maintained friendly ties with multiple West Asian nations while also supporting the Palestinian cause. He argued that a neutral stance would have strengthened India’s diplomatic influence in urging peace.

“You openly say that this war is wrong,” he said, urging the Prime Minister to take a clearer public position.

Concern for Indian workers abroad

Highlighting the large Indian diaspora in West Asia, Owaisi stressed that millions of Indians working in the region could be affected by prolonged instability. He warned that economic pressures in host countries could lead to job losses and asked whether the government was prepared to support returning workers.

Energy security and economic concerns

The Hyderabad MP also raised concerns about India’s energy preparedness, claiming that the country’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) covers only a limited number of days compared to global benchmarks.

Domestic issues raised

Owaisi also spoke about alleged incidents of communal tension and criticised actions targeting certain communities. He questioned selective economic narratives, pointing out India’s continued dependence on energy imports from West Asian countries.

Broader remarks

In his address, Owaisi also made remarks on regional geopolitics and unemployment, urging young people not to be diverted by religious divisions but to focus on economic challenges.

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The comments come amid heightened tensions in West Asia, where ongoing conflict has raised global concerns over energy supplies, economic stability, and the safety of expatriate communities.