A significant political controversy has erupted following remarks by Congress leader P. Chidambaram concerning the Pahalgam massacre. Chidambaram suggested the possibility of "homegrown terrorists" being involved, rather than automatically attributing the attack to Pakistani elements. This statement has drawn sharp criticism from BJP leaders, who accuse Chidambaram and the Congress party of echoing Pakistan's narrative.

Chidambaram's initial statement was made during a video interview, where he questioned the assumption that the perpetrators were from Pakistan. He argued that it was possible those involved could be "homegrown terrorists". In response to the backlash, Chidambaram stated that his comments were taken out of context. He accused his detractors of selectively using portions of the interview to misrepresent his views, alleging that they suppressed the full recorded statement to paint him in a negative light.

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan was particularly critical, stating that Chidambaram and the Congress were "speaking the same language" as Pakistan. Chouhan questioned whether Chidambaram was demanding proof of Pakistan's involvement in the Pahalgam attack, further exacerbating the controversy.

BJP leader Anurag Thakur accused the Congress of casting doubts on the Indian armed forces' achievements during Operation Sindoor. Thakur asserted that Congress leaders were quick to side with Pakistan and demand evidence from the armed forces, while attempting to absolve Pakistan in advance. He added that India would respond with decisive action rather than providing dossiers.

The Pahalgam massacre, which occurred on April 22, 2025, involved the killing of 26 innocent people in the Baisaran meadows of Pahalgam. Security forces recently eliminated three terrorists in an operation near Srinagar, identifying one as Suleiman Shah, allegedly the mastermind behind the Pahalgam attack. The operation, named 'Operation Mahadev', took place in Lidwas, Dachigam National Park. The army recovered weapons, including a US carbine and AK-47 rifles.

Sources indicate that Suleiman Shah was a member of Lashkar-e-Taiba. The elimination of the terrorists has been portrayed as a significant victory, with officials stating that justice has been served.