New Delhi: Following the gunfire incident at former US President Donald Trump's rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly condemned the attack, asserting that "there is no place for violence in politics." Expressing deep concern, PM Modi took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his thoughts.
"Deeply concerned by the attack on my friend, former President Donald Trump. Strongly condemn the incident. Violence has no place in politics and democracies. Wish him a speedy recovery," PM Modi wrote. He also extended his condolences to the families affected by the incident. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, those injured, and the American people," he added.
The incident occurred just months before the 2024 US presidential elections, disrupting Trump's rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. According to CBS News, Trump was immediately escorted off stage by US Secret Service agents and taken away in a motorcade. Videos circulating on social media showed Trump bleeding from his ear, and CNN reported that one spectator succumbed to their injuries.
In his first account of the incident, Trump stated that the bullet "pierced" the upper part of his right ear, and he immediately knew something was wrong. He thanked the US Secret Service and law enforcement for their rapid response, and offered condolences to the families of those killed and injured.
Trump's motorcade departed Butler Memorial Hospital shortly before 9:30 pm local time, and it was initially unclear where he was headed. He had been scheduled to travel to his estate in Bedminster, New Jersey, before proceeding to Milwaukee for the Republican National Convention, which is set to begin on Monday.
The US Secret Service reported that the suspected shooter fired multiple shots towards the stage from an elevated position outside the rally venue on July 13 at 6:15 pm local time. The shooter was neutralized by Secret Service personnel and is now deceased. The incident, which resulted in one spectator's death and another's critical injury, is under investigation.
Political leaders, including President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and former President Barack Obama, have also condemned the attack.
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