Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Jul 28: A remark by senior Congress leader P. Chidambaram, questioning the government's attribution of the recent Pahalgam terror attack to Pakistan-based militants, has ignited a fierce political storm, drawing sharp condemnation from the ruling BJP and even discomfort among opposition allies.

Speaking on the issue, Chidambaram asked,

“Why has the government already assumed the attackers came from Pakistan? Where is the proof? Has the NIA identified them or disclosed their origin? What if they were homegrown terrorists? Maybe the threat is internal. The government must also come clean about the extent of damage suffered.”

His comments have prompted an avalanche of criticism, particularly from BJP leaders who accused the Congress of downplaying cross-border terrorism and undermining national security.

Union Minister Anurag Thakur lashed out:

“Every time India is attacked, Congress avoids blaming Pakistan. Whether it was 26/11 or Pathankot, they never held Pakistan accountable. Congress did nothing substantial to stop terror when it was in power.”

BJP MP CP Joshi added:

“Before 2014, the country saw numerous attacks. What actions did Congress take against the perpetrators or their handlers?”

BJP MP Arun Govil, who famously portrayed Lord Ram on television, dismissed Chidambaram's suggestion outright:

“There can be no bigger lie than this.”

Former Maharashtra Minister Raj Purohit went a step further, controversially stating:

“If they weren’t Pakistanis, maybe they were Congressmen. Chidambaram held powerful positions and probably knows what the public doesn’t.”
Even allies of the Congress appeared to tread cautiously. NCP (SP) leader Amar Sharadrao Kale said:

“I haven’t heard the full statement, but globally, Pakistan’s role in sponsoring terrorism is well known. We must answer in their language.”

The controversy unfolds just days ahead of a high-stakes Parliament debate on Operation Sindoor and the Pahalgam terror attack, heightening political tensions.

Chidambaram’s remarks—while questioning premature conclusions—have once again brought the Congress under fire over its perceived leniency towards Pakistan, a long-standing charge by the BJP. Whether this latest episode influences the upcoming debate remains to be seen, but the political fallout has already begun.