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PM Revisits Operation Sindoor to Target Congress in Bihar Rally
At a campaign rally in the poll-bound state of Bihar, Narendra Modi invoked Operation Sindoor, stating the military action left the leadership of Indian National Congress—in particular the so-called “first family” of the party—“sleepless”. He claimed that while India struck terror infrastructure across the border, the Congress was ill-at-ease and unable to recover from the action.
What was Operation Sindoor
Launched in early May 2025 after a terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 tourists, Operation Sindoor comprised strikes by Indian forces on nine declared terrorist-infrastructure sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. According to official statements, no Pakistani military installations were targeted in the operation.
Political context
Modi used the mention of the operation to highlight his government’s “strong national security” credentials, contrasting them with the opposition’s record. He argued these security actions under his leadership were a departure from how the Congress would have responded. The remarks were part of his broader campaign messaging ahead of the Bihar state assembly elections, aimed at associating the Congress with weakness on defence and national security.
Implications
The reference to Operation Sindoor signals the BJP’s intent to make national security a key electoral theme in Bihar. It also highlights how military actions are being woven into campaign narratives. For the Congress, Modi’s rhetoric frames them as disconnected from defence concerns and unable to handle external threats, which may shape voter perceptions in the coming poll.
