Is PM Modi's Comparison of Operation Sindoor to a Cricket Match Unfortunate?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Comparison of military operations to sports can be insensitive.
- Operation Sindoor was a significant military response.
- Maharashtra is facing a severe crisis due to heavy rains.
- Public figures have a responsibility to communicate sensitively.
- Stricter regulations are needed for large gatherings.
Mumbai, Sep 29 (NationPress) Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his comparison of Operation Sindoor to a cricket match, labeling it as ‘unfortunate’.
“Operation Sindoor was a significant response to Pakistan, a nation that fosters terrorism and has attacked our country, leading to the loss of innocent civilian lives. Numerous soldiers sacrificed their lives during this operation for our nation. To compare such a serious operation to a cricket match is insensitive. Cricket serves merely as entertainment that benefits the Pakistan Cricket Board and broadcasters. Overlooking the grief of the 126 affected families while celebrating a game conveys the wrong message,” Priyanka Chaturvedi stated in an interview with IANS.
Earlier, PM Modi expressed on X, “#OperationSindoor on the games field. Outcome is the same – India wins! Congrats to our cricketers.”
Priyanka Chaturvedi further emphasized that while Operation Sindoor embodies bravery and sacrifice, cricket is just a sport and should never be equated with the sacrifices made by our martyrs.
She also addressed the ongoing crisis in Maharashtra caused by heavy rains, which have resulted in widespread distress.
“The recent torrential rains in Maharashtra have caused significant loss of life and property. Farmers are in severe distress, yet the central government has failed to provide any relief package for the state. Despite Maharashtra being an economically robust state, its needs and those of Mumbai are frequently ignored. Has the central government developed any strategy or expert committee to tackle climate change? Will the Home Minister respond to this crisis, or will he remain focused solely on elections and cricket on social media?” she remarked.
Moreover, she commented on PM Modi's foreword for the Indian edition of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s autobiography, “I Am Giorgia — My Roots, My Principles,” which is set to launch soon.
“PM Modi's international personal reputation is significant, and his connections with global leaders are crucial. His foreword in Meloni’s book reflects well on India's global image. Such diplomatic gestures can enhance India’s foreign policy and strategic partnerships. However, it is equally vital that these relationships are critically evaluated to ensure India’s recognition and strength on the global stage is balanced and well-managed,” she mentioned to IANS.
Additionally, she expressed her sorrow and concern regarding the rising death toll from the Karur stampede during Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president and actor Vijay’s rally, which has now resulted in 41 fatalities.
“Wherever large crowds gather in India, whether for film stars, political leaders, or religious figures, stampedes often lead to tragic losses of innocent lives. It is exceedingly unfortunate. Law and order considerations are often overlooked when permissions for such events are granted. Those whom people idolize frequently vanish in times of crisis, leaving the public to suffer. I urge citizens not to risk their lives by congregating in massive numbers. The government must enforce strict regulations for such events to ensure fair investigations and justice for the victims,” she concluded.