Should Trinamool Leaders Avoid Comments on Operation Sindoor?

Synopsis
On May 16, the Trinamool Congress warned its members against commenting on Operation Sindoor after a leader’s gaffe. This controversy highlights the sensitivities surrounding national security, a realm where even seasoned politicians must tread carefully. What does this mean for the party's future?
Key Takeaways
- Trinamool Congress warns members against commenting on sensitive military operations.
- Leader Sugata Roy faced backlash for his remarks on Operation Sindoor.
- Party emphasizes the importance of unity and caution in public statements.
- Official disapproval of Roy's comments reflects the party's stance on national security.
- Previous criticisms of the Chief Minister indicate a history of sensitive political discourse.
Kolkata, May 16 (NationPress) The Trinamool Congress has issued a warning to all party members, advising them against making any public comments regarding Operation Sindoor.
This directive was prompted by the significant embarrassment faced by the party following remarks made by its leader, Sugata Roy, concerning the operation.
"Any breach of this directive will result in strict disciplinary measures against the individual involved. Given the sensitive nature of this issue, which pertains to national security, the Chief Minister is refraining from public statements. It is our responsibility as party members to adhere to her example in this regard," stated a cabinet member who wished to remain anonymous.
The member also highlighted that Roy's previous comment about Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma not belonging in the squad had already caused some embarrassment.
"While that comment was somewhat manageable, Roy's latest statement is considerably harmful to the party's reputation. Such inappropriate remarks are not what one expects from a senior leader and politician like him," the cabinet member added.
Officially, the Trinamool Congress has released a statement disapproving of Roy's comments about Operation Sindoor.
"We categorically state that the statements made by Prof Saugata Roy, MP, do not represent the views of the All India Trinamool Congress," the statement read.
In a recent interview with a regional media outlet, Roy described Operation Sindoor as comical, citing the movement of warplanes, missiles, and drones.
What proved even more embarrassing for the party was his questioning of the specific locations of terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir that were allegedly targeted in the operation.
It is worth recalling that the Chief Minister faced harsh criticism back in March 2019 when she demanded evidence from the Union government regarding the Indian Air Force's strike at Balakot in Pakistan. At that time, CM Banerjee asserted that the public deserved to know details about the destruction caused by these operations.
Considering her past reactions in 2019, the Chief Minister has adopted a notably cautious approach in her responses regarding Operation Sindoor.