New Delhi, May 10 – The Congress on Saturday strongly criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for what it termed as an inappropriate political attack amid heightened national security concerns, accusing the ruling party of attempting to divide the country instead of promoting unity.The sharp response from the opposition came after the BJP posted a video on the social media platform X, comparing the previous UPA government’s response to terror attacks with that of the current regime. The BJP's post asserted, "The message to the enemies is loud and clear. Don't mess with us! Unlike the UPA regime's passivity, New India has no patience for futile peace talks."
Shashi Tharoor Calls BJP Post "Petty" and "Deplorable"
Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor condemned the BJP’s messaging, calling it a "petty attempt to divide us politically." He emphasized that the current national situation demands unity rather than political mudslinging."At a time when the nation stands united as Indians, this petty attempt to divide us politically is deplorable," Tharoor posted on X. He added that the government, including the BJP, had themselves realized the ineffectiveness of engaging Pakistan after inviting them to investigate the 2016 Pathankot attack, which later prompted a shift to military responses.
"This advertisement is neither appropriate nor mature. Delete it, please, @BJP4India. Jai Hind," Tharoor concluded.
Congress Questions Timing, Urges for National Solidarity
Congress’s media and publicity department head, Pawan Khera, also reacted strongly. He questioned whether it was the right time for political point-scoring when national unity was paramount."So do we have to do politics now? Is it time to do politics? Doesn’t the government need the support of the opposition?" Khera asked in Hindi on X. "Do we not have to give a message of unity now? The government and BJP should clarify."
BJP Draws Fire for Video Montage
The controversy stems from a BJP video montage suggesting a stark contrast in how terror attacks were handled under the UPA versus the Modi-led government, claiming the latter has adopted a more assertive, no-nonsense approach.With rising tension on the borders and public discourse focused on national security, the opposition’s rebuke signals a demand for restraint in political rhetoric and a unified front to confront external threats.
The BJP is yet to issue a response to the Congress's criticism.