Congress questions timing of Epstein-Puri photo release amid U.S. visit

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and other opposition figures have challenged the narrative surrounding newly surfaced images of External Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri with disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. The opposition has questioned the timing of the photograph's release, which came as U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in Mumbai for diplomatic engagements.

The controversy centres on Puri's account of his meetings with Epstein and the circumstances under which the images emerged publicly. Opposition leaders have suggested the release may be part of a broader geopolitical maneuver, though specifics of their allegations remain unclear.

Puri, who serves as India's External Affairs Minister, has not made detailed public statements addressing the opposition's concerns. The incident has injected an element of tension into current India-U.S. diplomatic discussions, as Rubio's visit aims to strengthen bilateral ties between the two nations.

The controversy underscores the sensitivity surrounding high-profile Indian officials' international networks and the potential for such matters to become flashpoints during periods of active diplomatic engagement. India's opposition has increasingly scrutinized the government's international relationships and decision-making processes.