Did K'taka CM Change His Stance on War with Pakistan?

Bengaluru, April 27 (NationPress) In a significant shift following backlash regarding his comments on military action against Pakistan after the Pahalgam terror incident, which resulted in the loss of 26 lives, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated on Sunday that war should only be waged when absolutely necessary.

In response to a media inquiry about his earlier assertion that "war is not needed," CM Siddaramaiah elaborated in Bengaluru that military action should be considered only when there are no alternatives left.

"War cannot provide solutions. It must be an option only when absolutely unavoidable," he emphasized.

Additionally, he pointed out, "I have highlighted failures in the security framework under the Central government. The tragic loss of 26 tourists resulted from a terrorist attack. Previously, during the Pulwama attack, 40 soldiers were killed. The Central government failed to ensure adequate security measures."

Siddaramaiah further stated, "While immediate military action is not required, it doesn’t imply that war should never occur if it becomes necessary."

In light of the discussions surrounding military action against Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack, which took the lives of 26 tourists, the Chief Minister remarked on Saturday that there is currently no need for war.

Addressing reporters in Mysuru, Siddaramaiah remarked, "There is no need for military action against Pakistan. Strict security protocols must be enforced. We advocate for peace, ensuring public safety, and the Central government should establish effective security measures."

When questioned about the Central government acknowledging a security lapse in Pahalgam, the Chief Minister responded, "I have spoken the truth regarding the security shortcomings leading to the Pahalgam attack. Proper security should have been in place at a popular tourist destination. Previously, in Pulwama, 40 soldiers lost their lives. They should have exercised utmost caution."

He also noted, "There was a dual failure—both intelligence and security. The public believed they were safe, but the Central government failed to protect them. The people had trust, but the Central government let them down."

"Regardless of any actions taken now, will the 26 individuals who lost their lives in the Pahalgam attack ever return?" CM Siddaramaiah questioned.

Following the Pakistani media highlighting CM Siddaramaiah’s comments about not pursuing war with them post the Pahalgam attack, the Karnataka BJP criticized the Chief Minister, accusing him of acting as a puppet for the enemy nation.

Leader of the Opposition, R. Ashoka, shared a video of a Pakistani news outlet broadcasting CM Siddaramaiah’s statement on his X account.

Referring to him as "Pakistan Ratna," Opposition leader Ashoka posted on X, "Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, you have suddenly gained fame in Pakistan due to your foolish and absurd statements."