Congress MP met Khamenei’s representative four times, gifted Nehru’s book amid Iran conflict debate

A political controversy has emerged after details surfaced about a Congress MP meeting a representative of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei multiple times in recent months. According to reports, the lawmaker held at least four interactions with the Iranian leader’s envoy, during which discussions touched on regional developments and India–Iran relations.

During one of these meetings, the Congress MP reportedly presented a copy of former prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru’s book to the Iranian representative. The gesture, highlighted in political discussions, has drawn attention as tensions in West Asia continue to escalate following recent developments involving Iran, Israel and the United States.

The revelation has triggered a political exchange, with the ruling side questioning the intent and timing of such engagements. Critics argued that the meetings raised concerns about diplomatic messaging at a sensitive moment when global tensions involving Iran have intensified.

Congress leaders, however, defended the interactions, saying such meetings with foreign diplomats or representatives are part of routine political and parliamentary engagement. They maintained that dialogue with international stakeholders reflects India’s long-standing diplomatic tradition and does not contradict the country’s official foreign policy stance