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PM Modi’s Military Remarks Spark Political Controversy
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks with the media inside the parliament premises in New Delhi, India, January 31, 2023. — Reuters
- Modi accused of politicizing military actions.
- Criticism for dodging claims of US mediation.
- Opposition questions the effectiveness of anti-terror campaigns.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s assertion that Operation Sindoor is "not yet over" has reignited political tensions and fueled regional discussions, according to reports from The News.
During a rally in West Bengal, Modi addressed Pakistan directly, stating, "You need to understand that we have entered your territory and struck three times," referring to past military actions including the 2016 Uri surgical strikes, the 2019 Balakot airstrikes, and the latest Operation Sindoor that commenced on May 7.
Framing Operation Sindoor as a national effort endorsed by "1.4 billion Indians," Modi claimed that Indian forces dismantled terrorist infrastructure along the Line of Control in a manner that "Pakistan never anticipated."
“Standing here on the sacred land of ‘Sindoor Khela,’ it is essential to talk about our renewed commitment against terrorism with Operation Sindoor. Terrorists attempted to extinguish the sindoor of our sisters, but our forces made them realize its true strength. From this land of Bengal, I proclaim on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians that Operation Sindoor is not over,” Modi told the audience, linking the military operation with the cultural traditions of Bengal.
Critics, including West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, have decried Modi’s use of military actions for political leverage.
In a strong response, Banerjee accused Modi of using a military operation’s name to play “political holi” and of manipulating religious symbols to stir nationalist sentiments.
“The name ‘Operation Sindoor’ was crafted with a political agenda in mind. While opposition leaders are working hard for the country abroad, the Prime Minister indulges in political games. This behavior is unbecoming of a Prime Minister,” Banerjee said at a press conference.
Banerjee also criticized Modi for employing gender-specific religious imagery. “You’re spreading a web of lies… PM Modi isn’t anyone’s husband; why don’t you discuss sindoor with your wife first?” she said, challenging the use of sindoor as a state propaganda tool. “Sindoor is not something to be commoditized. It represents self-respect.”
Modi’s rally remarks also targeted the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) in West Bengal, accusing it of "violence, corruption, and lawlessness," calling attention to recent communal riots in Murshidabad and Malda, as well as a major teacher recruitment scandal involving massive sums of money.
Banerjee defended her administration and accused Modi of devisive tactics. “He aims to divide and rule. He practices divisive politics,” she stated, adding that while opposition leaders are representing India on the global stage, the Prime Minister is merely "criticizing the government… and engaging in acts typical of the BJP."
Banerjee further challenged Modi to call for early elections in the state, declaring, “I challenge them. If they have the courage, let’s hold elections tomorrow. We’re ready, and Bengal is prepared to accept this challenge.”
Regarding accountability for the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, she questioned, “Has anyone seen the terrorists who stole the sindoor from the victims in Pahalgam? Has he captured them?”
Banerjee also accused Modi of avoiding tough questions on the international stage, particularly regarding former US President Donald Trump’s assertions of mediating the May 10 ceasefire between India and Pakistan: “Whenever America is mentioned, he goes silent.”
In a final jibe, Banerjee invited Modi to a televised debate. “If you’re so bold, come join me for a press conference on television. We can discuss any topic you like, and you can bring your teleprompters if you want,” she said, critiquing Modi’s reluctance to engage in unscripted discussions.
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