BJP’s Response to Air Force Chief’s Statement

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has launched a strong critique against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi following remarks by Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh. The Air Force Chief dismissed allegations that the Indian Air Force was restricted during Operation Sindoor, contradicting claims made by Mr. Gandhi in Parliament. The operation was initiated in response to a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives.

Rahul Gandhi’s Allegations in Parliament

During a parliamentary debate, Rahul Gandhi accused the government of limiting the Indian Air Force’s actions against Pakistan’s air defense system. He suggested that pilots were sent into combat with their “hands tied,” implying governmental restrictions on military operations. These allegations have been met with significant backlash from the ruling party.

Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh’s Clarification

In a recent address, Air Chief Marshal Singh emphasized the absence of any operational constraints during Operation Sindoor. He highlighted the clear political will and directives that facilitated the mission’s success, including the downing of six Pakistani aircraft. The Air Force Chief reiterated that any perceived limitations were self-imposed by the forces themselves, not by external directives.

Political Reactions and Implications

The BJP seized upon these clarifications to criticize Mr. Gandhi, with Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju urging him to uphold parliamentary decorum and accusing him of damaging India’s reputation. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also condemned the Congress party for spreading misinformation about India’s military capabilities and losses.

Impact on Congress and Media

Senior BJP leader Amit Malviya noted a “deathly silence” within Congress and Pakistani media following the Air Force Chief’s statements. He argued that these revelations have severely undermined Mr. Gandhi’s credibility as Leader of the Opposition.