'Violence has no place in democracy'; PM Modi responds to gunfire incident at White House dinner party

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded to the shooting incident at a White House press dinner party. PM Modi said he was relieved to hear that US President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania and Vice President J.D. Vance are safe. Modi tweeted that violence has no place in a democracy.

“Relieved to learn that President Trump, the First Lady and Vice President are safe and unharmed following the recent security incident at a Washington DC hotel. I extend my best wishes for their continued safety and well-being. Violence has no place in a democracy and must be unequivocally condemned.” Wrote PM Modi on the social media platform X.

Loud gunshots, as many as eight, as recalled by witnesses, were heard during the incident. Journalists, celebrities, national leaders and other elites were present at the dinner. It is reported that about 2600 people were at the event.

Trump, who shared a note praising security officials after the incident, also announced on social media that the attacker had been caught. "The Secret Service and law enforcement acted quickly and courageously. The shooter was apprehended. I have recommended that the event proceed. However, it will be conducted entirely under the guidance of law enforcement. They will make a decision soon. Whatever that decision is, it will be a very different evening from what was planned," Trump said he had spoken with representatives of the event and would reschedule the dinner within 30 days.