The Controversial ‘Op Sindoor’: Congress Slams Government’s ‘Tamasha’ Amidst Heated Parliament Debate

The Monsoon Session of Parliament has been gripped by a fervent debate surrounding ‘Operation Sindoor,’ India’s military response to the devastating Pahalgam terror attack of April 22, 2025. At the heart of this discussion, Congress MP Praniti Shinde has sharply criticized the government, labeling the operation as nothing more than a “tamasha” (spectacle) orchestrated for media attention. This potent accusation has ignited a political firestorm, highlighting the growing chasm between the ruling dispensation and the opposition regarding national security and governmental transparency.

The Operation Sindoor Controversy centers on differing narratives. While the government, led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, hails the operation as a decisive and successful strike against terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir (PoJK), the opposition demands greater clarity and accountability.

Key Points of the ‘Operation Sindoor Controversy’ Unpacked:

• Praniti Shinde’s Scathing Critique:
  • Congress MP Praniti Shinde, during the Lok Sabha debate, vociferously questioned the government’s handling of ‘Operation Sindoor.’
  • She asserted that “no one is telling us what was achieved in this Operation,” demanding concrete details.
  • Her queries included: “How many terrorists were caught? How many fighter jets did we lose? Who is responsible and whose mistake is this?”
  • Shinde’s remarks underscore the opposition’s demand for unvarnished facts regarding the operation’s outcomes.
• Government’s Defense of ‘Operation Sindoor’:
  • Defence Minister Rajnath Singh strongly defended ‘Operation Sindoor,’ emphasizing its success in neutralizing over 100 terrorists, trainers, and handlers linked to groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen.
  • He stated the operation, a retaliatory strike after the Pahalgam massacre that killed 22 civilians, was concluded within 22 minutes without any loss of Indian soldiers.
  • Singh asserted that the operation was “entirely in self-defense, neither provocative nor expansionist.”
  • He also clarified that India paused its action after achieving its objectives and dismissed claims of external pressure for a ceasefire, asserting that Pakistan “admitted defeat and offered to cease hostilities.”
  • Singh reiterated that ‘Operation Sindoor’ has only been paused, not called off, and warned of resumption if any misadventure occurs from Pakistan’s side.
• Opposition’s Broader Concerns Regarding the ‘Operation Sindoor Controversy’:
  • Beyond the immediate outcomes, the opposition, including Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi, has raised questions about the government’s failure to prevent the Pahalgam attack in the first place and delays in bringing terrorists to justice.
  • Concerns were also voiced over claims by former US President Donald Trump regarding mediation in ending hostilities, which the Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has firmly rejected, stating there was no call between PM Modi and Trump during the critical period.
  • The opposition has consistently called for greater transparency on casualties and clarity regarding the ceasefire.
• The Pahalgam Attack and its Aftermath:
  • ‘Operation Sindoor’ was a direct response to the brutal terror attack in Pahalgam, which resulted in the loss of 22 civilian lives.
  • The incident underscored the persistent threat of cross-border terrorism and the need for robust counter-terrorism measures.
• Technological Prowess and Future Preparedness in the context of ‘Operation Sindoor’:
  • Reports highlight the use of indigenous hi-tech systems, including loitering munitions and advanced air defence systems like Akash, in ‘Operation Sindoor,’ showcasing India’s technological self-reliance in military operations.
  • Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Anil Chauhan reiterated that ‘Operation Sindoor’ continues, emphasizing the need for high preparedness levels, 24×7, 365 days a year.

The debate on ‘Operation Sindoor’ reflects a crucial national dialogue on security, accountability, and the government’s approach to cross-border threats. As both sides present their arguments, the public remains eager for comprehensive answers and a clear understanding of the implications of this significant military action. The demand for transparency from the opposition continues to put pressure on the government to address all aspects of the Operation Sindoor Controversy.