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Key Points

Odisha Congress leader Ajay Kumar Lallu launched a strong critique of the BJP government's national security approach. He accused the ruling party of hiding failures and shielding ministers who disrespect the Indian Army. Lallu specifically highlighted the controversial remarks against Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and questioned the government's inaction. His statement drew historical parallels with Indira Gandhi's decisive leadership during the 1971 war, challenging the current government's stance.

Key Points: Lallu Slams BJP Over Army Respect and National Security Failures

  • Congress challenges BJP's national security narrative
  • Criticizes handling of army respect controversies
  • Invokes Indira Gandhi's 1971 war legacy
  • Demands accountability for controversial ministerial remarks
2 min read

Odisha Cong in-charge accuses BJP of hiding failures, shielding those who disrespect army

Odisha Congress leader Ajay Kumar Lallu criticizes BJP's handling of national security and army respect, invoking historical comparisons

"A clever cat scratches the pole. When a government fails, it tries to hide its failures by blaming others. - Ajay Kumar Lallu"

New Delhi, May 20

Odisha Congress in-charge Ajay Kumar Lallu launched a scathing attack on the Centre, accusing it of politicising national security and shielding individuals who have allegedly disrespected the Indian Army.

Speaking to IANS, he stated, “There is a saying in the village: ‘A clever cat scratches the pole.’ When a government fails, it tries to hide its failures by blaming others."

He questioned the BJP’s handling of national security issues and invoked the emotional sentiments of the public around PoK and Balochistan.

“Who was responsible for the ceasefire? Who informed the country? Who retreated from war? The entire nation wanted to bring the tricolour to PoK, free Balochistan, and cripple Pakistan. Who insulted our army? Who questioned the bravery of our sister Sofiya Qureshi? These BJP ministers and leaders must answer to the Prime Minister,” he said.

Drawing a historical comparison, Lallu invoked former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s role in the 1971 war, saying, “They cannot accept that just like Indira Gandhi split Pakistan in 1971, the nation wanted a similar decisive action this time.”

He further alleged that top Congress leaders had extended support to the government in high-level meetings, despite that the Prime Minister avoided all party meetings.

“When Operation Sindoor ended, the entire nation saluted the army’s bravery," he told IANS.

Taking aim at Madhya Pradesh Minister's remarks on Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, Lallu accused the government of shielding him. “The Madhya Pradesh government is continuously protecting him. When the media questioned them, they started arguing instead of taking action. Why hasn’t he been dismissed? Whose fear is holding them back?” he asked, further adding, “The High Court is intervening, cases are ongoing, and even after the Supreme Court’s remarks, that minister remains firmly seated. This means the government is standing with those insulting the army. Why doesn’t Amit Malviya tweet about this?”

Ajay Kumar also thanked Union Minister Chirag Paswan for, as he put it, “understanding the sentiments of the nation,” while urging BJP leaders to reflect on the same.

Chirag Paswan on Tuesday strongly condemned the controversial remarks made by MP Tribal Affairs Minister Vijay Shah against Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, stating that had Shah been a member of his party, he would have expelled him for life.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
National security should never be politicized. While I don't always agree with Congress, Lallu raises valid points about accountability. That minister's remarks about Col. Qureshi were shameful - action should be taken irrespective of party lines. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳
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Priya M.
Why bring Indira Gandhi into this? Every government has its own challenges. The 1971 situation was completely different. We should focus on current issues rather than playing blame games. Our armed forces deserve better than being used as political pawns.
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Amit S.
The reference to Balochistan is concerning. As Indians, we must be careful about interfering in other nations' internal matters, even if it's Pakistan. Our focus should be on securing our borders and improving soldiers' welfare. #RespectOurForces
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Sunita R.
Disappointed to see such statements from both sides. Instead of scoring political points, leaders should work together on defense matters. That minister should apologize to Col. Qureshi publicly - she's an inspiration to all Indian women!
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Vikram J.
The "clever cat scratches the pole" analogy is actually quite apt here 😄 But seriously, we need more constructive debates on defense policies rather than emotional rhetoric. Our soldiers deserve bipartisan support, not political mudslinging.
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Neha P.
While the criticism may be valid, Congress should also reflect on their own record when in power. Pot calling kettle black? Let's have an honest discussion about respecting armed forces without political colors.

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