Why Is Rajnath Singh Criticizing the Opposition Over Operation Sindoor?
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Synopsis
In a powerful address, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh condemns the opposition for undermining the morale of the Indian armed forces. During the Lok Sabha debate, he emphasizes the success of Operation Sindoor while challenging the opposition to focus on key military achievements rather than losses. Discover the implications for national security and political accountability.
Key Takeaways
- Rajnath Singh emphasizes the need for respect towards the armed forces.
- Operation Sindoor achieved its objectives without any loss to Indian soldiers.
- The importance of bipartisan support during national security discussions.
- Criticism of the opposition for focusing on losses instead of victories.
- Historical reflection on past BJP conduct during military successes.
New Delhi, July 28 (NationPress) Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched a fierce critique against the Congress and other opposition leaders on Monday, accusing them of damaging the morale of the Indian armed forces by persistently questioning India's losses instead of recognizing the military accomplishment of Operation Sindoor.
While addressing the Lok Sabha during the crucial debate on Operation Sindoor, he stated, "Pakistan could not strike any target within India, and none of our vital assets were harmed. Our defense measures were impenetrable, successfully stopping every attempt. I commend the Indian military forces and urge my colleagues in the opposition to show respect by applauding our armed forces."
In spite of his call for unity, prominent opposition figures, including Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi and Congress MP K.C. Venugopal, remained silent and did not engage in the applause.
Rajnath Singh emphasized that India concluded the operation only after fulfilling its strategic and political objectives, dismissing any claims that it was halted due to external pressure.
"India concluded the operation only after achieving all political and military goals set before and during the mission. Thus, the idea that the operation ended due to pressure is completely unfounded," he remarked, amid some shouting from opposition members.
He recounted that on May 10, Pakistan sought to communicate with India for a cessation of hostilities after suffering severe losses.
"They reached out to our DGMO and requested a ceasefire. This was granted with a clear message -- Operation Sindoor is merely paused, not over. It will be resumed if provoked again," he added.
Addressing the Congress directly, the Defence Minister challenged the nature of their inquiries.
"The opposition queries how many of our jets were lost. Why don’t they ask how many enemy jets we shot down? Why don’t they inquire if we dismantled terror infrastructure? The answer is yes," he asserted.
Continuing his remarks, he said, "They should be questioning whether we eliminated the masterminds behind the terror attacks that erased the 'sindoor' from the foreheads of our mothers and sisters. Again, the answer is yes. And if they ask whether any of our soldiers were harmed during the operation, the answer is no."
In a broader critique of the opposition's mindset, Rajnath Singh cautioned against fixating on "relatively minor" points when the essential matter is national security and the dignity of soldiers.
"Some of our friends in the opposition appear unable to ask the right questions," he concluded.
Reflecting on the BJP's actions during its opposition days, the Defence Minister reminisced how leaders such as former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee commended the Congress-led government after India's victory in the 1971 war.
"We never questioned how many of our planes were lost. We praised our leadership and stood united. We didn’t concern ourselves with which party was in power or its ideology," he added.
Point of View
It is crucial to understand that national security transcends political affiliations. The focus should always be on supporting our armed forces and celebrating their achievements, rather than indulging in partisan inquiries that could demoralize the troops. Unity in the face of threats is essential for a nation’s strength.
NationPress
31/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Operation Sindoor?
Operation Sindoor refers to a military initiative undertaken by India to achieve specific strategic and political objectives against threats emanating from Pakistan.
Why did Rajnath Singh criticize the opposition?
Rajnath Singh criticized the opposition for questioning military losses instead of acknowledging the successes of Operation Sindoor, which he argues undermines the morale of the armed forces.
What was the response of the opposition during the Lok Sabha debate?
Key opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, did not participate in the applause Rajnath Singh called for, indicating a lack of bipartisan support.
What message did Rajnath Singh convey about military achievements?
He emphasized that the operation was successful and challenged the opposition to ask about enemy losses rather than focusing on India's, asserting that India achieved its military goals.
How did Rajnath Singh reflect on past BJP conduct?
He recalled how the BJP, during its opposition days, focused on supporting the government's efforts in military successes without questioning losses, advocating for unity.
