Modi Govt's Silence on Khamenei's Death Sparks Debate

• Modi government's non-condemnation of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's assassination (March 1, 2026) by American-Israeli forces triggers a political debate.
• Opposition, including Sonia Gandhi, demands a formal condolence statement, accusing the government of picking a side.
• Critics recall UPA government's silence on Muammar Gaddafi (2011) and Saddam Hussein (2006) deaths despite strong ties.
• Government supporters cite muted global reactions and Khamenei's repeated interference in India's internal matters (Kashmir, Article 370, Delhi riots, CAA).
• Safety of 8 million Indians in the Middle East and Iran's actions impacting regional stability are key factors in India's pragmatic foreign policy.