Did BJP Condemn UPA for Yielding to US Pressure After 26/11?
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Synopsis
In a fierce critique, BJP's Sambit Patra accused the UPA government of failing to act decisively post the 26/11 terror attacks. He claimed that the Congress-led administration succumbed to US pressure and compromised national security. This article explores Patra's assertions and contrasts the current government's approach with that of the past.
Key Takeaways
- BJP accuses UPA of lacking political will.
- US pressure impacted India's response to 26/11.
- Sambit Patra highlights differences post-2014.
- Chidambaram's comments reveal internal government dynamics.
- Criticism directed at the Gandhi family's influence.
New Delhi, Oct 4 (NationPress) BJP's national spokesperson and Lok Sabha MP Sambit Patra fiercely criticized the former UPA government on Saturday, asserting that the administration lacked the political will to respond to the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, even though the armed forces were fully capable and ready for action.
He claimed that the Congress leadership succumbed to US orders, thereby compromising the nation's pride and security.
Patra's comments were made in response to former Union Minister P. Chidambaram's recent admission that he had supported a retaliatory attack on Pakistan following the Mumbai attacks, but the government chose to refrain from such action due to international pressure, especially from the United States.
"When we compare India before 2014 to the India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the distinction is evident," Patra stated at a press conference in New Delhi.
"Prior to 2014, under Sonia Gandhi and the UPA, what was India's decisive strength? After 2014, under Narendra Modi, India's decisive strength is unmistakable. The Indian Army was brave and capable even before 2014, but what was lacking was political will," he continued.
Referring to Chidambaram's remarks, the BJP MP remarked, "He indicated that after the 26/11 incident, the decision not to retaliate or employ kinetic force against Pakistan stemmed from foreign pressure. Chidambaram has made it clear that Condoleezza Rice, the then US Secretary of State, explicitly stated that India should not take any action against Pakistan under any circumstances."
"Chidambaram and then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh were instructed not to respond by the US government. There was global pressure, specifically from the US directed at the Prime Minister and the Home Minister," he added.
Patra also referenced Congress MP Manish Tewari's earlier comments acknowledging that some leaders desired a firm response, but the Congress Working Committee opted for diplomacy over retaliation.
"Manish Tewari himself recognized that the US pressure on India was significant," Patra emphasized.
Shifting his focus to the Gandhi family, the BJP spokesperson accused Sonia Gandhi of orchestrating the decision against action.
"You might ask who made this decision. I declare today that this decision was made illegally and unconstitutionally by Sonia Gandhi, who dictated it. She directed Manmohan Singh and Home Minister Chidambaram to refrain from taking action against Pakistan. She forced India to bow and provided refuge to Pakistan," Patra asserted.
He further accused the Congress of consistently attempting to undermine the armed forces.
"Whether it was 'Operation Sindoor', previous surgical strikes, or the airstrike, the Congress Party has sought to impede every initiative. On every issue, under Sonia Gandhi's guidance -- with Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Vadra -- they have questioned and attempted to undermine the country's Army," he stated.
Patra also criticized Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Ajay Rai for his comments regarding Operation Sindoor.
"Even the Congress chief in Uttar Pradesh has gone so far as to express distrust in the statements of the CDS or the Air Chief Marshal. They need to clarify their position," he commented.
Concluding his remarks, Patra contrasted the current government's decisiveness with that of the UPA period.
"India has transformed, and this new India embodies valor. The India that existed before 2014 possessed the Army's courage but lacked political will. Under Prime Minister Modi, we now observe both -- courage and political resolve," he concluded.
Point of View
It's imperative to acknowledge the claims made by the BJP concerning the UPA's response to national security threats. While political narratives often differ between parties, the focus should remain on ensuring that historical lessons lead to stronger policies and defenses for the nation. This discourse is vital for fostering a robust national security framework that prioritizes the country's pride and safety.
NationPress
04/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What were BJP's main criticisms of the UPA government?
BJP criticized the UPA government for lacking political will to retaliate after the 26/11 attacks and yielding to US pressure, compromising national security.
Who made the allegations against the Congress leadership?
The allegations were made by BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra during a press conference.
What did Chidambaram reveal regarding the government's decision?
Chidambaram revealed that he supported a retaliatory strike against Pakistan but the government refrained due to international pressure from the US.
What comparison did Patra make between pre-2014 and post-2014 India?
Patra highlighted the difference in decisiveness and political will under the leadership of Narendra Modi compared to the UPA era.
What role did Sonia Gandhi play according to Patra?
Patra accused Sonia Gandhi of dictating the decision not to retaliate against Pakistan after the 26/11 attacks.
