Is BJP and Congress at Odds Over Jairam Ramesh's Reactions to US Panel's Report on Op Sindoor?
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Synopsis
A fierce political skirmish unfolded as Congress leader Jairam Ramesh criticized the Centre for its silence on the US panel's report labeling the Pahalgam terror strike an 'insurgent attack.' The BJP retaliated strongly, accusing the Congress of undermining India's credibility. What does this mean for India's political landscape?
Key Takeaways
- Political tensions have heightened between BJP and Congress over the US report.
- Jairam Ramesh's criticism reflects broader concerns about India's international image.
- The debate over Operation Sindoor raises questions about India's foreign policy.
- The BJP accuses Congress of damaging national credibility.
- Congress insists the government's silence is detrimental to India's standing.
New Delhi, Nov 20 (NationPress) A significant political clash emerged on Thursday as Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh pointed out what he termed as "uncomfortable and unsettling" aspects in a recent report by the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission, which labeled the Pahalgam terror strike as an "insurgent attack". His comments, posted on X alongside excerpts from the report submitted to the US Congress, triggered a heated exchange between the ruling BJP and the Congress.
Ramesh rebuked the Centre for its silence on what he described as a distorted narrative and inquired, "Will the PM and the MEA express their objections and register a protest?" The Congress quickly extended its support to him.
Senior leader Pawan Khera told IANS that the US panel's characterization was intolerable, stating, "This is a report from the US. Previously, President Donald Trump made similar claims over fifty times, which the Prime Minister has yet to address, and that is regrettable. The report also indicates that during Operation Sindoor, China openly backed Pakistan.
"Approximately 83 percent of Pakistan's armament purchases come from China, and still, we seem to be catering to our enemy's ally. What sort of foreign policy is that?" he questioned.
Congress State President Ajay Rai also supported Ramesh, voicing, "What he indicated is that regarding Operation Sindoor, why did this action have to occur, and why was the PoK issue not tackled? Even now, we query why PoK wasn’t addressed. This happened because India was pressured by the US. President Donald Trump exerted pressure, and Narendra Modi is unable to respond."
The BJP countered with strong denunciations, accusing the Congress of undermining India's stance.
In comments to IANS, BJP Rajya Sabha MP Brij Lal stated, "Jairam Ramesh and his leader Rahul Gandhi consistently use language that insults and maligns the nation, which is intolerable. The global community is aware of what transpired during Operation Sindoor, and we administered a lesson to Pakistan. Moreover, following Operation Sindoor, parliamentary committees were dispatched, and I was part of one such committee, visiting Japan, Korea, and other nations to brief them on Operation Sindoor. Several members from Jairam Ramesh's own party participated in that committee.
He added that the committee clarified that the operation was a reaction to the Pahalgam terror attack and that India would not hesitate to retaliate against any cross-border aggression.
"Regrettably, such a senior leader like Jairam Ramesh is voicing these statements," he remarked.
BJP leader Pratul Shah Deo also criticized Ramesh, suggesting he should "relocate to Pakistan". Speaking to IANS, Deo commented, "Individuals like Jairam Ramesh, who reside in this nation yet communicate the language of Pakistan, if they cannot appreciate this country, then Pakistan might be a fitting place for them. Should a victorious nation seek to reach out to the other, pleading with them to cease military action? Pakistan implored India to halt the action. India triumphed in that conflict and left Pakistan in ruins. The Congress has never spoken in the nation's favor.
Point of View
It's crucial to highlight that while political disagreements are common, the integrity of India's international standing should always be prioritized. Both parties must engage in constructive dialogue rather than resorting to accusations that may undermine national unity.
NationPress
20/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main issue raised by Jairam Ramesh?
Jairam Ramesh criticized the Centre for not responding to a US panel's report that termed the Pahalgam terror strike as an 'insurgent attack'.
How did the BJP respond to Ramesh's remarks?
The BJP strongly condemned Ramesh's comments, accusing him and the Congress of undermining India's position and using derogatory language.
What was said about Operation Sindoor?
The Congress leaders questioned the necessity of Operation Sindoor and criticized the government's response to international pressures regarding the PoK issue.
What was the BJP's stance on India's military actions?
BJP leaders asserted that Operation Sindoor was a justified response to the Pahalgam terror attack and emphasized India's readiness to retaliate against any aggression.
How did the Congress justify Ramesh's concerns?
Congress leaders supported Ramesh, asserting that the description in the US report was unacceptable and that past pressures from the US influenced India's actions.
