There is a dispute over the phone call made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump on March 24.

According to the news published by the New York Times, the richest businessman in the world, Elon Musk, was also present during the call. But the news was denied by the Ministry of External Affairs.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson said, "We have seen this news. The March 24 telephone conversation was solely between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump. As previously stated, it involved an exchange of views on the situation in West Asia."

It is clarified that no third party was involved. The main focus of the talks was on the situation in West Asia (especially the Iran war) and keeping the Strait of Hormuz open and secure.

The US Embassy in India declined to comment on the matter when asked, saying the White House should be contacted. The White House described the talks as "productive," but there was no official confirmation or denial of Musk's presence.

The opposition Congress party has raised questions about this development. The Congress party has asked why Prime Minister Modi did not disclose this if Musk was present and what was the rationale for including a private businessman in the state talks. Following India's firm denial, clarification is awaited from the US President.