'Unfortunate' how Trump 'threatens' Modi over hydroxychloroquine: AAP MP

Aam Aadmi Party Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh on Tuesday called it "unfortunate" the way US President Donald Trump "threatened" Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the export ban on the malaria drug hydroxychloroquine.

New Delhi, April 7 Aam Aadmi Party Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh on Tuesday called it "unfortunate" the way US President Donald Trump "threatened" Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the export ban on the malaria drug hydroxychloroquine.

Singh, while speaking to the media over India's removal of the ban on the export of hydroxychloroquine, said that Trump had said that "there would be retaliation if India does not supply the said drug", which is a direct "threat" to India.

"Such a threat at a time when our nation is fighting the battle against coronavirus is unfortunate and the US cannot dictate to us what we need to do," Singh said.

He said in India many people are dying, while many are suffering from hunger and at that time such a threat is an attack against the people of India.

"I expected a befitting reply from the Government of India and Prime Minister Modi to the US. The message should have been clear that India will not succumb to such a threat from the US. But unfortunately, the Central government did succumb to the threat and lifted the ban today. It seems that the BJP government lacks the vision and mission to fight against coronavirus. "

Singh said till March 19, the Centre continued the export of ventilators, other ICU equipment and sanitizers.

"Till March 31, the BJP government continued to supply masks and ventilators to Serbia despite the rise in the number of COVID-19 cases in the country. Many state governments like Bihar are asking for various medical aids from the Centre and the doctors of AIIMS and other hospitals also need more PPE kits, therefore, the Centre should first fulfil these needs within India."

Singh said the AAP believes that such an unprecedented "threat" from the US President is completely "unacceptable" and Prime Minister Modi should give a befitting reply to the US.

"The Centre should not succumb to such threats from the US," he said.

( With inputs from IANS )