Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lauded the success of "Operation Sindoor," describing it as a "victory celebration". Addressing the media ahead of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, Modi praised the strength and precision of the Indian Armed Forces during the operation. He stated that the objectives were achieved with 100% success, with forces neutralizing terrorists in their hideouts in just 22 minutes. Modi also highlighted that the weapons deployed during the operation were indigenously manufactured, reinforcing India's growing self-reliance in defense production.
However, the opposition has voiced strong demands for a prompt and thorough discussion in Parliament regarding Operation Sindoor and the events leading up to it. The opposition's insistence on a debate led to disruptions on the first day of the Monsoon Session in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. They seek a detailed explanation of the operation, its strategic implications, and the circumstances surrounding the initial terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, that prompted the military response.
A 16-hour debate on Operation Sindoor has been scheduled for the following week in Parliament. The Business Advisory Committee announced this after facing significant pressure from the opposition. Initially, the opposition wanted the debate to occur immediately and be answered by Prime Minister Modi himself. However, due to Modi's scheduled foreign visit to the UK and Maldives, the debate was postponed.
Several opposition members are also seeking clarity on claims made by former US President Donald Trump regarding his role in brokering a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. This issue is particularly sensitive, as any external mediation could potentially undermine the Shimla Agreement, which emphasizes bilateral negotiations between the two countries.
The government has signaled its willingness to address the opposition's concerns. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Leader of the House in Rajya Sabha JP Nadda have stated the government is open to a discussion and will respond to all relevant issues. However, the government has not yet confirmed whether Prime Minister Modi will personally participate in the debate. While some parties, like Congress, are firm that Modi should address the house, others are keener on a debate without preconditions regarding Modi's presence.
The Prime Minister also praised leaders across party lines for their involvement in the global outreach program related to Operation Sindoor, which he said reflected India's collective strength and rising global stature. He also acknowledged the unity displayed in Parliament concerning the armed forces' valor during the operation. Modi further added that this session was a "very proud Monsoon session" for the nation, highlighting India's recent achievement of sending an astronaut to the International Space Station, as well as its security successes.
Despite the Prime Minister's call for unity, the opposition is determined to scrutinize the details of Operation Sindoor, the government's handling of the situation, and the broader implications for India's national security and foreign policy. The debate promises to be a significant event in the Monsoon Session of Parliament, potentially shaping the political discourse and influencing public opinion on matters of national security.
