Accuses Opposition of acting as ‘fifth column’
New Delhi: The BJP on Monday slammed the Congress, accusing its leaders of demoralising the Indian Army with irresponsible comments even as Pakistan continues ceasefire violations along the Line of Control.
Speaking to reporters, BJP national spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi contrasted Pakistan’s cross-border shelling with what he called the “internal bombardment” of the Army by Opposition figures. “While Pakistan bombs our forward posts, certain Congress leaders hurl statements that dent the morale of our soldiers,” he said.
The ruling party specifically targeted Congress MP Ajay Rai, who last week displayed a toy Rafale aircraft adorned with lemons and chillies — symbols traditionally used to ward off the evil eye — and questioned when the jets would see action against terrorists. “It appears the Indian Air Force needs protection from the ‘evil eye’ of the Congress more than from Pakistan’s guns,” Trivedi quipped, likening the mockery to Pakistan’s practice of funding terrorism while denying responsibility.
Accusing the Congress and its allies of acting as a “fifth column,” the BJP spokesperson warned that such remarks risk aiding Pakistan’s propaganda. He noted that Indian military units routinely incorporate religious practices — such as invoking war cries like “Bolo Bajrangbali ki Jai” and “Raja Ram Chandra ki Jai” — and employ spiritual guides to bolster troop morale.
Trivedi also observed that while few Pakistani officials publicly criticise their own armed forces, Indian media frequently quote Opposition leaders denigrating the government and the military. He asserted that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the Indian Army remains far stronger and more unified than its Pakistani counterpart, though he conceded that Pakistan presents a more cohesive political front.
Reiterating Modi’s vow of decisive retribution, he concluded: “Those behind the recent terror attack and the broader conspiracy will be pursued to the ends of the earth and punished beyond their imagination.”
