Congress MP Shashi Tharoor's statement on India's anti-terrorism strategy sparks controversy within the party. Party leader Udit Raj labeled him a BJP 'super spokesperson,' creating internal turmoil.
Shashi Tharoor: Following the recent success of Operation Sindur, the Indian government has dispatched several all-party delegations to various countries to articulate India's foreign policy and counter-terrorism strategy. One such delegation is led by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor. However, Tharoor's statements have sparked controversy within the Congress party, with fellow party members accusing him of being a BJP 'super spokesperson.' Let's understand the full story.
Operation Sindur: India's New Strategy
The Indian government successfully executed Operation Sindur, a decisive action against terrorism. Subsequently, the government formed seven all-party delegations tasked with robustly presenting India's perspective during foreign visits. One of these delegations is led by senior Congress MP Shashi Tharoor.
Tharoor highlighted India's b stance against terrorism abroad. He detailed the 2016 surgical strikes and the 2019 Balakot strikes, emphasizing how these operations demonstrated India's capability to eliminate terrorism across borders. Tharoor stated that India's new strategy sends a clear message to terrorists: attacks will come at a heavy cost.
Key Highlights of Shashi Tharoor's Statements
Tharoor stated, "In 2016, we conducted surgical strikes across the Line of Control (LoC) targeting terrorist camps – something we had never done before. Even during the Kargil War, we didn't cross the LoC."
He further explained that following the 2019 Pulwama attack, India destroyed terrorist camps in Balakot across the international border, showcasing India's decisive action against terrorism.
Tharoor also mentioned the success of Operation Sindur, which destroyed nine terrorist camps in Pakistan's Punjab province. He described this operation as a leading example of India's counter-terrorism strategy.
Internal Congress Controversy: Udit Raj's Attack
Tharoor's statements haven't been well-received by all within the Congress party. Congress leader Udit Raj criticized Tharoor, alleging he has become a 'BJP super spokesperson.' Raj stated on social media that Tharoor is saying things even BJP leaders aren't saying.
Raj questioned Tharoor's awareness of previous governments' actions against terrorism. He cited the 1965 Indian Army incursions into Pakistan and the 1971 division of Pakistan as examples. He also mentioned several surgical strikes conducted during the UPA government's tenure.
The Real Issue?
Tharoor's statements clearly indicate his intention to bly present India's counter-terrorism strategy internationally. However, some within the Congress party disagree, viewing it as inconsistent with the party's legacy and history.
Leaders like Udit Raj believe Tharoor is overstepping party boundaries and promoting the BJP's agenda. Conversely, Tharoor's aim is reportedly to enhance India's international image.
