‘Relieved to learn that Trump, First Lady safe’: PM Modi condemns shooting at White House Correspondents’ Dinner

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday strongly condemned the shooting incident at an event attended by US President Donald Trump, saying that violence has no place in a democracy. In a post on X, PM Modi said he was “relieved” to know that Trump and other top leaders were safe.

The incident took place during the annual White House Correspondents’ Association dinner in Washington, DC. Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and several senior officials were evacuated after gunshots were heard inside the venue.

What exactly happened at the Washington event?

According to Trump, a man approached a security checkpoint armed with weapons. The suspect reportedly opened fire at a Secret Service agent. However, the agent was protected by a bulletproof vest and did not suffer serious injuries. Trump praised the Secret Service personnel, calling them “very brave” for quickly neutralising the attacker. The suspect has since been arrested.

The US president said the attacker charged from about 50 yards away and was moving quickly before being stopped. He also described the suspect as a “sick person”. Officials believe the attacker acted alone and have termed him a “lone wolf”.

Was anyone injured?

No major injuries have been reported in the incident. The Secret Service agent who was shot at is said to be in “good shape”. The gala dinner, which was being held in the basement ballroom of the Hilton Hotel and attended by top cabinet members and officials, was immediately cancelled after the scare.

In his message, PM Modi extended his best wishes for the safety and well-being of all those present. He said that such acts of violence must be unequivocally condemned in any democratic society.