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Congress Faces Backlash Over Leaders’ Remarks on Pahalgam Attack
The Indian National Congress has found itself at the center of a political storm following controversial remarks made by some of its leaders regarding the recent Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians. Amid mounting outrage, the party leadership has swiftly moved to distance itself from these statements, stressing that they do not represent the Congress’s official position.
Pahalgam Attack Remarks Spark Outrage
Karnataka Minister TB Thimmapur and Maharashtra legislator Vijay Wadettiwar triggered criticism by questioning whether terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack asked victims about their religion before opening fire. Wadettiwar commented, “Do terrorists have time to ask about religion?” Their statements were widely condemned for appearing to downplay the brutality of the incident and undermining the experiences of the victims.
Adding to the controversy, senior Congress figure Saifuddin Soz suggested that India should consider Pakistan’s denial of involvement in the attack, a comment perceived by many as weakening India’s firm stance against cross-border terrorism.
Congress Controversy Deepens
Faced with growing backlash, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi directed party leaders to avoid making statements that stray from the party’s official stance. Congress spokespersons have clarified that the views expressed by individual leaders are personal opinions and not endorsed by the party leadership.
The Congress leadership stressed the importance of maintaining unity and exercising sensitivity during a time of national mourning, urging members to focus on supporting the victims’ families and upholding the seriousness of the situation.
BJP Criticism Intensifies
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) quickly seized on the controversy, demanding that Congress take disciplinary action against the leaders responsible for the contentious remarks. Senior BJP leaders accused the Congress figures of displaying insensitivity and undermining national unity at a critical time.
The BJP has also pointed out that such statements have been exploited by Pakistan to deflect blame for the terror attack, complicating India’s diplomatic efforts to hold the perpetrators accountable.
Broader Political Impact
The Pahalgam terror attack has not only heightened tensions between India and Pakistan but has also exposed fissures within India’s domestic political landscape. The Congress party’s internal struggles to manage divergent voices highlight the challenges political outfits face when responding to incidents of national tragedy.
As investigations into the attack continue, public focus remains on delivering justice to the victims and preventing further acts of terrorism. The controversy serves as a reminder of the need for political leaders to exercise responsible communication and show solidarity during times of national crisis.
