P. Chidambaram Criticizes Modi Government’s Handling of Pahalgam Attack and Military Response
Senior Congress leader and former Indian Home Minister P. Chidambaram has voiced serious concerns over the Indian government’s handling of the April 22 Pahalgam attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). The incident, which claimed 26 lives, most of them reportedly tourists, has sparked calls for greater transparency from the ruling administration.
In a recent interview, Chidambaram questioned the lack of information shared with the public regarding the perpetrators of the attack and the subsequent military response, known as Operation Sindoor.
“Where are the attackers? Have they been identified or apprehended?” he asked, highlighting earlier reports of arrests without further updates.
Concerns Over Government Silence
Chidambaram criticized the Modi-led government for what he described as “inconsistent and fragmented communication.” While various military officials have commented on the situation from different global locations, the country’s top leadership — including the Prime Minister, Defence Minister, and Foreign Minister — remain silent, he noted.
He suggested that the government may be withholding information on possible tactical missteps during Operation Sindoor. “The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) mentioned strategic changes. What were the original tactics? What changed, and why?” Chidambaram asked.
Questions Over NIA Probe and Source of Attack
The former minister also expressed skepticism about the ongoing National Investigation Agency (NIA) probe. He questioned the assumption that the attackers came from across the border, noting that no concrete evidence has been publicly presented.
“It’s possible these were homegrown attackers. Why jump to conclusions without facts?” he said.
Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos and Regional Tensions
Following the Pahalgam incident, Pakistan launched a retaliatory operation, codenamed Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos, targeting Indian military installations across the Line of Control (LoC). According to Pakistan’s military, the operation resulted in the downing of six Indian fighter jets, including three Rafale aircraft, and the destruction of several drones.
India did not confirm the extent of its losses, instead characterizing the response as “unprovoked aggression.” The 87-hour confrontation concluded on May 10 after a U.S.-brokered ceasefire.
U.S. President Donald Trump later stated that his administration helped defuse the conflict through diplomatic channels and trade-related pressure on New Delhi. While India downplayed Washington’s involvement, Pakistan officially acknowledged the role and submitted a nomination recommending Trump for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize.
Call for Transparency
Chidambaram emphasized the need for public accountability, arguing that national security should not be shrouded in secrecy.
“In any military conflict, both sides incur losses. There is no shame in acknowledging that,” he said. “The people deserve honest communication from their government.”
His remarks come amid increasing pressure from opposition parties urging the government to release comprehensive details about the attack and its aftermath.
No Official BJP Response Yet
While the BJP has not formally responded to Chidambaram’s statements, party leaders have previously accused opposition figures of politicizing sensitive security matters. The government’s continued silence on this incident is expected to remain a point of debate in the coming weeks.
