Is BJP Right to Call Congress ‘Copycat’ Over New Events Honoring Armed Forces?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a heated political exchange, BJP leaders accused the Congress party of imitating their initiatives with the launch of 'Jai Hind Sabhas' aimed at honoring armed forces. As both parties engage in a war of words, the timing and intent behind their actions raise critical questions about patriotism and national pride.
Key Takeaways
- Political Rivalry: The BJP and Congress are in a heated exchange over patriotism.
- Timing Matters: The timing of both parties' events raises questions about genuine intentions.
- Public Sentiment: Citizens are increasingly aware and vocal about national pride.
- Security Concerns: Both parties are addressing national security, but the sincerity is debated.
- Engagement: The involvement of Army veterans and citizens highlights the importance of this discourse.
New Delhi, May 15 (NationPress) A new political controversy surfaced on Thursday as BJP leaders accused the Congress party of being a 'copycat' by initiating its nationwide 'Jai Hind Sabhas' to honor the Indian armed forces and pay tribute to the 26 victims of the recent Pahalgam terror attack.
BJP representatives, such as Praveen Khandelwal and Manjinder Singh Sirsa, criticized Congress, labeling it a 'copycat' for imitating the BJP's ongoing 'Tiranga Yatra.'
The BJP's 'Tiranga Yatra', which commenced on May 14, celebrates the success of ‘Operation Sindoor,’ a military operation executed in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam attack. This Yatra is currently traversing multiple states, including Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Odisha, and is scheduled to continue until May 23.
This controversy arises shortly after Congress launched its ‘Jai Hind Yatra’ on May 9 at state headquarters nationwide to pay homage to the valor of Indian soldiers during 'Operation Sindoor' and to commemorate the civilians lost in the Pahalgam attack.
Now, Congress has revealed plans for a series of 'Jai Hind Sabhas' from May 20 to May 30, focusing on honoring the armed forces and highlighting national security concerns.
In response to Congress, BJP leader and Secretary General of the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) Praveen Khandelwal remarked, “Congress is a copycat. If they genuinely wished to honor the armed forces, they should have announced their Yatra sooner. First, they made vague statements about Turkey and Azerbaijan, then suddenly they initiate a patriotic march. This inconsistency reveals the party's true character.”
Delhi BJP leader and Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa also derided the timing of Congress's announcement.
“Previously, they discussed Pakistan and China and were even accused of accepting funds from foreign entities. Now, it seems they’re receiving ‘patriotism shots.’ I commend them — perhaps they’ve finally come to understand that the country has evolved. People now recognize adversaries, demand accountability, and uphold national pride.”
Adding to the criticism, BJP MP Kamaljeet Sehrawat stated, “The same party that never genuinely respected the Constitution’s architect now advocates for constitutional values. It’s ironic. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Constitution is not merely respected — it is preserved in the truest sense.”
Meanwhile, Congress will conduct its 'Jai Hind Sabhas' from May 20 to May 30 to honor the armed forces and voice concerns regarding national security.
Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal posted on X, “The Indian National Congress will hold ‘Jai Hind Sabhas’ across India to salute the extraordinary valor of our Armed Forces. We will also raise critical questions about recent security lapses, the government’s management of national threats, and the questionable involvement of foreign actors like the US in India’s internal security issues.”
The ‘Jai Hind Sabhas’ will take place in cities such as Delhi, Pune, Shimla, Kochi, Hyderabad, and Guwahati, with participation from Army veterans, Congress leaders, and the public.
Point of View
It's essential to maintain a neutral stance amidst this political rivalry. The BJP and Congress are both leveraging public sentiments toward national pride and security, but the authenticity of their motives is under scrutiny. The engagement of citizens in these discussions is crucial as it reflects the evolving political landscape of our nation.
NationPress
11/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the controversy between BJP and Congress?
The BJP accused Congress of copying its initiatives by launching 'Jai Hind Sabhas' to honor armed forces, coinciding with BJP's 'Tiranga Yatra.'
What is 'Operation Sindoor'?
'Operation Sindoor' is a military operation by India in response to a terror attack in Pahalgam, which led to the loss of several lives.
When are the 'Jai Hind Sabhas' scheduled?
The Congress has scheduled 'Jai Hind Sabhas' from May 20 to May 30.
What are the objectives of 'Jai Hind Sabhas'?
The 'Jai Hind Sabhas' aim to honor the armed forces and raise concerns regarding national security.
What is the BJP's stance on Congress's actions?
BJP leaders have criticized Congress for lacking authenticity and for launching their initiatives in response to BJP's popular campaigns.
