Islamabad: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is facing significant pressure due to a declining reputation both domestically and internationally, according to Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif. Asif’s remarks come in the wake of Modi’s purported defeat in a conflict with Pakistan, intensifying scrutiny over Modi’s standing.

According to Radio Pakistan, Asif expressed his views in a post on the social media platform X, stating that Modi is “immensely tense” as his reputation continues to deteriorate. Asif argued that Modi’s attempts to label him as mentally unstable will not address the underlying issues or rehabilitate Modi’s image.

Asif also referenced comments by Indian politician Rahul Gandhi, who has criticized awards given to Modi, suggesting they were either artificially generated or self-managed to bolster his image as a global statesman. Asif claimed that this has instead contributed to a perception of Modi as a “global con man.” He pointed to coverage by The Guardian, a respected publication, which has raised similar questions about the legitimacy of these accolades.

The Defence Minister further alleged that Modi’s efforts to secure international recognition are part of a strategy to counteract his unstable reputation at home.