Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India] : AIADMK National Spokesperson Kovai Sathyan has strongly criticised the Congress party, accusing it of displaying “selective patriotism” and attempting to undermine India’s global reputation by questioning the Centre’s military response to Pakistan.
Sathyan said, “Congress, which doesn’t have the spine to make a statement against Turkey, is now talking about the Defence Minister’s and Prime Minister’s actions. The party’s stance raises serious concerns about national unity at a time when India is being globally lauded for its professional response.”
He cited recent praise from Pentagon officials, who acknowledged India’s retaliation against Pakistan as “measured and professional,” pointing out that no civilians were harmed in India’s response, unlike the casualties suffered in Jammu and Kashmir due to cross-border shelling.
Sathyan urged political parties to stand united in moments of national security.
“Isn’t it a shame that instead of standing together, the Congress is nitpicking and creating divisions? This is the time to be united — that is true patriotism. But Congress chooses selective patriotism, joining in only when there is something to celebrate,” he said.
The AIADMK leader also criticised the Congress’s demand for a joint parliamentary statement questioning the Centre’s actions, saying it politicises a sensitive national issue.
“Congress should be ashamed. Instead of supporting initiatives that are earning India international respect, they are choosing to politicise them,” Sathyan added.
Earlier, BJP leader Nalin Kohli also took aim at the Congress for announcing ‘Jai Hind’ rallies, accusing the party of trying to question India’s ceasefire strategy with Pakistan — a move first mentioned by US President Donald Trump.
Kohli alleged that Congress had a pattern of doubting the armed forces, reminding the public how the party had previously questioned surgical strikes and demanded proof.
“They are doing the same again with Operation Sindoor,” Kohli said.
Meanwhile, Congress MP Jairam Ramesh hit back, accusing the BJP of politicising Operation Sindoor.
“We never politicise national security. Yet the Prime Minister is meeting only NDA CMs to discuss this issue. What about non-NDA states like Tamil Nadu, Telangana, or Himachal Pradesh? This is blatant politicisation,” Ramesh said in a press briefing.
He also criticised the Modi government for remaining silent on the role of the United States in brokering a ceasefire deal between India and Pakistan.