Did Ajay Rai Really Insult India's Rafale Fighter Jet?

New Delhi, May 5 (NationPress) A political uproar has emerged after Ajay Rai, the Congress chief in Uttar Pradesh, waved a toy Rafale jet decorated with lemons and green chillies—a traditional gesture meant to ward off negative forces. Congress representatives defended the act as a symbolic call for stronger measures against terrorism, while the BJP condemned it as a blatant insult toward India's military.

Rai’s remarks followed the tragic Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians due to their religious identity.

In an explanation to IANS, Rai stated, “This has been tied by the government (displaying a toy plane with lemons and green chillies). The victims of the Pahalgam attack are asking whether the Rafale was acquired for superstitious reasons or to serve its intended function. I didn't tie the charm myself.”

In support of Rai, Congress MP Imran Masood questioned the government’s lack of action. “Why aren’t we utilizing the Rafale jets? Are they merely for show? We demand decisive action against the enemies of our nation,” he asserted.

Referencing former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s assertive responses to threats, he added, “The nation expects that caliber of leadership today—not empty promises.”

Congress leader Udit Raj also defended Rai, asserting that his comments were not directed at the armed forces. “This does not insult the Army. We’re calling for action against terrorists. Pakistan continues to issue threats despite being the aggressor. Such remarks should not be misinterpreted,” he remarked.

Conversely, the BJP retaliated fiercely. National General Secretary Tarun Chugh accused Congress of echoing “the rhetoric of Pakistan’s Army and ISI.”

“From Siddaramaiah to Ajay Rai, numerous Congress leaders are mimicking Pakistan’s narrative. Deriding the very weapons cherished by our soldiers is disgraceful and unpatriotic,” Chugh stated, further adding that such behavior undermined the morale of India’s security forces.

BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla escalated the criticism, labeling the Congress as “Anti-National Congress” (ANS). “Ajay Rai, a close ally of Rahul Gandhi, hasn’t merely ridiculed the Rafale; he has tarnished the spirit of our armed forces. This act has gained attention in Pakistan. This isn't just political theatrics—it's a calculated alignment with anti-India sentiments,” he contended.

He also accused Congress of previously questioning India's military operations and providing Pakistan with a “clean slate.”

BJP MP Sanjay Jaiswal added to the chorus, suggesting foreign influence. “The Congress lacks intellectual integrity and is motivated by foreign-funded NGOs. Their statements reflect the interests of external entities rather than India,” he declared.

This controversy arises after India finalized a ₹63,000 crore agreement with France for 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets. The Modi administration has praised this acquisition as a substantial enhancement of India’s naval strike capabilities. The Rafale-M is designed for maritime strikes, reconnaissance, and air defense roles—considered vital for bolstering national defense preparedness.