P. Chidambaram, the former Union Home Minister, has ignited a political firestorm with his recent remarks concerning the UPA government's response to the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. In a recent interview, Chidambaram revealed that the UPA government decided against military retaliation against Pakistan following the attacks due to intense international pressure, notably from the United States, and the Ministry of External Affairs' stance. He admitted that "retribution crossed my mind" but the government ultimately decided against military action.
Chidambaram stated that "The whole world descended upon Delhi to tell us 'don't start a war',". He specifically mentioned that then US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice flew to Delhi to meet with him and the Prime Minister, urging them not to react. Chidambaram acknowledged discussing potential retaliation with the Prime Minister and other key figures, but the conclusion, heavily influenced by the Ministry of External Affairs, was to avoid a physical response.
These revelations have triggered sharp criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), who have labeled Chidambaram's admission as "too little, too late". Union Minister Pralhad Joshi stated that Chidambaram's remarks confirm what the nation already knew – that the 26/11 attacks were mishandled due to pressure from foreign powers. BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawala alleged that Chidambaram was initially reluctant to take charge as Home Minister after the attacks and favored military action, but "others prevailed". Poonawala further questioned the role of Sonia Gandhi, asking why she allegedly prevailed over the Home Minister and accused the Congress of giving Pakistan a "clean chit" regarding the Mumbai attacks. He also criticized the UPA government for allegedly promoting a "Hindu terror" narrative and granting Pakistan Most Favored Nation (MFN) status despite repeated terror incidents.
The BJP has contrasted the UPA's response to the Mumbai attacks with the current NDA government's actions, citing surgical strikes, the Balakot air strike, and Operation Sindoor as examples of a more robust approach to terrorism. They have questioned the Congress's commitment to national security and accused them of prioritizing foreign relations over decisive action. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju stated that India has "paid a heavy price" for the Congress party's actions and asserted that India would not tolerate any terrorist attack now.
Chidambaram's statements have opened a Pandora's Box of political accusations and counter-accusations. The BJP is using this as an opportunity to attack the Congress's record on national security, while the Congress is likely to defend its actions by highlighting the complex diplomatic considerations at the time. The incident has also brought into focus the delicate balance between international pressure, domestic politics, and national security interests in the aftermath of a major terror attack.
