Rahul Gandhi said ‘support Centre on Pahalgam response’, but is anyone in Congress listening?

Rahul Gandhi Said ‘Support Centre On Pahalgam Response’, But Is Anyone In Congress Listening?

The all-party meeting concluded with a unified voice, with all agreeing to stand with the government against Pakistan. However, this unity was short-lived, with the Congress breaking rank.

One of the first to deviate was Karnataka chief minister (CM) Siddaramaiah. He made light of the terror act in Pahalgam, stating war was unnecessary. Although forced to clarify, the damage was done.

A string of Congress leaders followed suit, seemingly embarrassing their party, given the directive from the top was to refrain from emboldening Pakistan.

QUESTIONING INTELLIGENCE

The criticism of the government has centred on the issue of intelligence failure, with many Congress leaders questioning the Centre on this. Furthermore, X handle of the INC Kerala Congress, with its considerable reach, has taken aim at the PM for his Lahore visit and meeting with Nawaz Sharif, questioning if the attack is a consequence of that encounter.

The government argues that politicians’ questioning of intelligence and related matters provides Pakistan an opportunity to perceive India as weak.

THE RESPONSE TO PAHALGAM

Another point of contention is the issue of retaliation. J&K Congress chief Tariq Hameed Karra advocated for dialogue between India and Pakistan instead of war, directly contradicting Rahul Gandhi’s stance of supporting the government’s actions against Pakistan.

Amid this, internal discord has erupted within Congress. Shashi Tharoor urged reason, stating that 100% intelligence accuracy is unattainable, citing the October 7 incident in Israel. This triggered immediate anger and discomfort within Congress, with Udit Raj questioning Tharoor’s allegiance, asking if he belonged to the BJP.

Adding fuel to the fire, Maharashtra Congress MLA Vijay Wadettiwar questioned whether religion was a factor in the shooting.

The BJP now possesses substantial ammunition, with Amit Malviya questioning if the Congress is echoing Pakistan’s rhetoric, accompanied by a potent image.

War-like situations, public anger, and the demand for justice necessitate a united front.

However, within the Congress, there seems to be a disconnect between words and actions.