The Indian Parliament is currently engaged in a comprehensive debate surrounding "Operation Sindoor," the nation's response to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam. The discussion, which commenced on Monday, has seen participation from prominent leaders across party lines, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressing the Lok Sabha today, and a speech from Prime Minister Narendra Modi expected later in the evening.
The debate was initiated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who emphasized that Operation Sindoor was a decisive action against terrorism, marking a shift from previous approaches. Singh stated that the operation's objective was to eliminate terror nurseries nurtured by Pakistan and deliver justice to the families affected by cross-border attacks. He asserted that India demonstrated its military capability, national resolve, morality, and political acumen during the operation, sending a clear message that any terrorist attack would be met with a decisive response.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted India's diplomatic efforts to shape global understanding of the Pahalgam attack and Pakistan's role in cross-border terrorism. He pointed out that the international community largely supported India's right to defend itself, with only a few nations opposing Operation Sindoor. Jaishankar also mentioned the condemnation of the Pahalgam attack by international groupings like Quad and BRICS.
The opposition, however, has raised concerns and questions regarding the government's handling of the situation. Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi questioned the security lapses that led to the Pahalgam attack and criticized the government for not adequately addressing these failures. He questioned how the terrorists managed to carry out the killings and accused the government of withholding critical details. Other opposition members have also pressed the government for more information and accountability.
Several key points have emerged during the ongoing parliamentary debate. Rajnath Singh asserted that Operation Sindoor was "paused" but could resume if Pakistan engages in further misadventures. He also revealed that over 100 terrorists were killed during the operation. S Jaishankar stated that India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 following the Pahalgam attack, signaling a tougher stance against Pakistan's support for cross-border terrorism.
The debate has also seen heated exchanges between members of the ruling and opposition parties. BJP MP Anurag Thakur criticized the opposition for not acknowledging that the terrorists in the Pahalgam attack asked victims about their religion before killing them. BJP MP Baijayant Jay Panda accused the Congress party of repeatedly surrendering India's interests over the decades. AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi congratulated the armed forces for the success of Operation Sindoor, particularly highlighting the destruction of a terror camp in Bahawalpur.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised the speeches of Rajnath Singh and S Jaishankar, acknowledging their insightful perspectives on the success of Operation Sindoor and India's global outreach. Modi highlighted how Jaishankar's speech demonstrated that the world has clearly heard India's perspective on fighting terrorism through Operation Sindoor.
The parliamentary debate on Operation Sindoor is expected to continue, with further discussions and interventions from key leaders. The outcome of this debate is likely to shape the future course of India's counter-terrorism strategy and its relationship with neighboring countries.
