Sam Pitroda, Chairman of the Indian Overseas Congress, has found himself at the center of a fresh controversy following his remarks about feeling "at home" in Pakistan. His initial statement, made during an interview where he advocated for a neighborhood-first foreign policy, triggered immediate backlash, particularly from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Pitroda has since issued a clarification, aiming to contextualize his comments and assuage concerns.
In his original statement, Pitroda, a long-time Gandhi family aide, shared his experiences of visiting Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Nepal, stating that he didn't feel like he was in a foreign country. He emphasized the shared culture, language, and cuisine, expressing a desire for peaceful and harmonious relations with India's neighbors. "I've been to Pakistan, and I must tell you, I felt at home. I've been to Bangladesh, I've been to Nepal, and I feel at home. I don't feel like I'm in a foreign country. They look like me, they talk like me, they like my songs, they eat my food. So, I must learn to live with them in peace and harmony. That's my first priority," he stated. He also highlighted the "common gene pool" within the region, suggesting a shared heritage that transcends political boundaries.
The BJP reacted sharply to Pitroda's remarks, accusing the Congress party of having an "undying love" for Pakistan. BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari went so far as to call Pitroda "Pakistan's favourite," questioning how any patriot could feel at home in a "terror nation," especially in light of recent terror attacks. The BJP also alluded to the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, implying that the previous UPA government, of which Pitroda was an advisor, had been soft on Pakistan.
Faced with the escalating controversy, Pitroda issued a detailed statement to clarify his intentions. He asserted that his remarks were meant to emphasize the shared history and people-to-people bonds between India and its neighbors. He stressed that his aim was not to belittle anyone's suffering or undermine legitimate concerns, particularly regarding terrorism and geopolitical tensions. "If my words have caused confusion or hurt, I want to clarify that my aim was never to belittle anyone's suffering or undermine legitimate concerns - but to foster honest conversation, empathy, and a more grounded and responsible approach to how India sees itself - and is seen - by others," Pitroda stated.
Pitroda further explained that his intention was to highlight the importance of addressing critical issues such as the electoral process, civil society, youth empowerment, and India's role in the neighborhood and globally. He cautioned against prioritizing image over substance in foreign policy, advocating for a relationship built on mutual trust, peace, and regional stability.
This is not the first time Pitroda's statements have stirred controversy. In the past, he has drawn criticism for his remarks on the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, India's diversity, and the threat posed by China. These incidents have often forced the Congress party to distance itself from his views. Despite the recurring controversies, Pitroda remains a prominent figure in the Indian Overseas Congress and a long-time advisor to the Gandhi family.
