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Congress Scion Rahul Gandhi Said ‘India Can’t Make Drones’. Then Our Indigenous SkyStriker & Nagastra-1 Hit Pakistan

By
The Commune
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rahul gandhi congress nagastra 1 kamikaze skystriker harpy drone china pakistan operation sindoor

In a recent YouTube video titled “The Drone Age of War”, Rahul Gandhi offered a sweeping critique of India’s defence manufacturing capabilities, lamenting that the country “does not make any of the components” inside advanced drones and has failed to develop core competencies in electric motors, optics, and batteries. His underlying argument: India is missing out on a new industrial revolution powered by drone technology, artificial intelligence, and a robust production ecosystem.

Yet, less than a few months later, Operation Sindoor—India’s swift and precision-driven military retaliation to the Pahalgam terror attack—proved his claims not just outdated, but fundamentally inaccurate. In what can only be described as a landmark moment for India’s indigenous defence industry, homegrown drones, including the SkyStriker and Nagastra-1, played a starring role in neutralizing cross-border terror threats and defending Indian territory from missile strikes.

What Did Rahul Gandhi Say?

In the video, he said, “This is a DJI drone made in China and that’s a Lithium Polymer battery. these are four brushless DC motors and that’s the camera. so what I was saying was that when you connect these brushless Motors to this battery, give it a camera and allow people to communicate directly with this through FPV unit you change Warfare. This little thing is now making tanks, artillery pieces, large weapons in the Ukraine Battlefield, pretty much obsolete. I said that Industrial Systems fight Wars. This is actually a commercial product this is made by a Chinese Factory called DJI and this is actually a toy. What we are seeing here is innovative technology of the motor high quality Optics telecommunication equipment and essentially a bunch of cell phone batteries set together are allowing this thing to transform the battlefield. So, it is the Optics and communication system are allowing you to see the battlefield see the sea in a completely different way and then the electric motor is allowing you to Target very very accurately, put explosive power very accurately where you want and this is revolutionized how accurately you can Target kinetic energy.”

Continuing, he said, “We have to build such a system and we have to have competence in electric motors, we have to develop competence in Optics, we have to develop competence in batteries. this is what is going to be at the heart of the electric vehicle, this is what’s going to be at the heart of all robotics, this is what’s going to be at the heart of drones, this is what’s going to be at the heart of Submarine, this is going to be at the heart of toys, Warfare, everything and the sad fact is that we’re nowhere here. we don’t make any of the components inside this we don’t understand how it’s made, we certainly don’t make any of the Optics, we don’t understand how it’s made and that’s what my speech was getting at that, this is actually where we should be playing and the network that produces this is where the real value is and all AI is actually going to be operating on this network so for example when this thing is built AI is going to be used to order how it’s built when this thing is used AI will determine how it’s used.”

It is noteworthy that the drone that Rahul Gandhi is praising in the video is banned for use in India without special permissions. DJI drones, frequently used by Pakistan-based narco-terrorists and smugglers, are linked to cross-border drug trafficking. His public use of such a drone violates no-fly zone rules and undermines national security protocols.

How India Proved Him Wrong

What we saw in the aftermath of the Pakistani aggression at the border will put Rahul Gandhi to shame for his massively ignorant comment.

SkyStriker: The Bengaluru-Israeli ‘Suicide Drone’ That Hit Terror Targets

  • Developed by Bengaluru’s Alpha Design Technologies in partnership with Israel’s Elbit Systems.
  • Used in Operation Sindoor to destroy terror launchpads in PoK.
  • Capabilities:
    • 10 kg warhead, precision GPS-guided strikes.
    • Silent & stealthy—undetectable by radar.
    • Can loiter for hours before striking with surgical accuracy.

Nagastra-1: India’s First Indigenous ‘Suicide Drone’ (Kamikaze)

  • Made by Nagpur-based Solar Industries India.
  • Key Features:
    • 1 kg high-explosive warhead, GPS-guided (within 2m accuracy).
    • 30 km range, reusable if mission aborted (parachute recovery).
    • 75% indigenous components, 40% cheaper than foreign equivalents.
  • Proved critical in neutralizing high-value terror targets.

HARPY Drones: Disabling Pakistan’s Air Defence

  • Used to blind Pakistani radars, including one in Lahore, post-S-400 interception.
  • Autonomous SEAD (Suppression of Enemy Air Defences) capability—hunts and destroys radar emissions.

The Markets React: Defence Stocks Soar

India’s performance in Operation Sindoor had an immediate economic impact. Solar Industries, the manufacturer behind Nagastra-1, saw its stock surge 2.3% in a single day post-operation, with a staggering 1,450% gain over the past five years. Its market capitalization now stands at over ₹1.2 lakh crore.

Alpha Design Technologies, in which Adani Defence holds a 26% stake, also gained attention, with analysts highlighting how these drones are transitioning from showcases at expos to frontline operational assets.

The successful use of these platforms sends a powerful message to global investors: India is no longer merely assembling parts—it is innovating at scale.

Where Rahul Gandhi Got It Wrong

While Rahul Gandhi correctly emphasized the significance of motors, batteries, optics, and AI in future warfare, his assertion that India “does not make any components inside drones” is no longer valid.

  • Motors and Power Systems: Indigenous drone platforms like Nagastra-1 and SkyStriker incorporate advanced electric drives designed for stealth and efficiency.
  • Optics and Targeting: These drones include homegrown targeting systems integrated with GPS, AI algorithms, and thermal imaging for night-time operations.
  • Software and AI Integration: Contrary to the claim that India is absent from the AI race, the software controlling these loitering drones uses real-time data analytics, route optimization, and autonomous targeting protocols—areas where India is gaining competence rapidly.

Furthermore, Gandhi downplayed the role of Indian private-sector giants like Adani Defence, labelling them mere assemblers. But Operation Sindoor’s battlefield success proves that these firms are now core contributors to India’s military-industrial complex. Assembly lines are giving way to innovation pipelines, bolstered by Make in India, Startup India, and Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020 reforms.

A Technological Inflection Point for India

What Rahul Gandhi calls a “toy” from DJI is not irrelevant—it illustrates the rise of bottom-up innovation. But his mistake is assuming that India is absent from this phenomenon. In reality, Indian drones like Nagastra-1 are not only functional but strategically tailored for the subcontinent’s terrain and conflict realities. Indian defence tech now spans land, air, sea, and cyber realms—S-400, SkyStriker, HARPY, and Nagastra-1 collectively form a multi-domain deterrent grid. As the battlefield becomes more transparent and drone-saturated, India’s focus on indigenous capabilities will define future deterrence and tactical superiority.

A New Chapter in Indian Defence

India’s powerful response in Operation Sindoor marks a tectonic shift in how war is waged—and how indigenous innovation is mobilized for national security – be it the Akashteer Defence System or the homegrown drones. Far from the hollow vision of helplessness Rahul Gandhi painted, the reality is that India is rapidly becoming self-reliant, resilient, and forward-looking in the defence sector.

Rahul Gandhi’s critique is a wake-up call, but the battlefield has already responded. India is not just flying drones—it’s soaring into the future of warfare on its own wings.

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Viral Video Shows Foreign Nationals At DMK Anniversary Event, Sparks Visa Violation Concerns

By
The Commune
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foreign national visa violation

The DMK is facing questions after viral video surfaced that foreign nationals on Tourist Visas participated in a political event held in Chennai to celebrate the fifth anniversary of the party’s rule in Tamil Nadu. Videos from the event showed some foreigners dancing and holding placards featuring Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, which has led to concerns about possible violations of Indian visa norms.

According to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Tourist Visas are granted strictly for recreation, sightseeing, and casual visits. Tourists are not permitted to participate in political activities, including rallies, protests, or campaign-related events. Such actions are considered violations of visa conditions and may result in deportation, blacklisting, or legal proceedings.

The government has reiterated these rules on several occasions. Notably, in 2013, the MHA issued guidance discouraging foreigners on Tourist Visas from engaging in journalistic or politically sensitive activities. In 2020, similar concerns were raised when tourist visas were misused for religious gatherings, prompting stricter enforcement.

While the intent behind the participation of the foreign visitors in the DMK event remains unclear, the incident has sparked calls for a review to ensure that visa guidelines are respected and that political events do not inadvertently involve foreign nationals in ways that could lead to diplomatic or legal complications.

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Leftist Rag ‘The Wire’ Claims Its Website Is Blocked In India Under IT Act Amid India-Pakistan Tensions

By
The Commune
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the wire blocked indo pak tension war

In a development that has shocked many on the leftist side as well as the non-left side of the spectrum, access to leftist news platform The Wire has allegedly been blocked across India following a directive reportedly issued by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) under provisions of the Information Technology Act, 2000. Multiple Internet Service Providers (ISPs) have allegedly confirmed to The Wire that the site is currently inaccessible within Indian territory.

The move comes a day after X (formerly Twitter) revealed that the Indian government had instructed the platform to restrict access to several user accounts and media handles, including Maktoob Media, The Kashmiriyat, and Free Press Kashmir, amid escalating tensions with Pakistan in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack and India’s retaliatory military operation, Operation Sindoor.

In an official statement released on 9 May 2025, The Wire said it had been informed by service providers that the site was blocked as per government orders. On their X handle, they wrote, “Dear Readers of The Wire  In a clear violation of the Constitutional guarantee of freedom of the press, the Government of India has blocked access to http://thewire.in across India. Internet Service Providers say The Wire has been “blocked as per the order of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology under the IT Act, 2000.” We protest this blatant censorship at a critical time for India when sane, truthful, fair and rational voices and sources of news and information are among the biggest assets that India has. We are taking all necessary steps to challenge this arbitrary and inexplicable move. Your support has kept our work going for the past 10 years and we are counting on all of us standing together at this time. We will not be deterred from providing truthful and accurate news to all our readers. Satyamev jayate.

The Wire emphasized that it would continue its journalistic work and is actively exploring legal options to challenge the ban. The editorial team reiterated its commitment to delivering “truthful and accurate news” and expressed gratitude to readers for their support over the past decade.

As of now, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has not issued any public clarification or comment on the action.

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“Shut The F*** Up, Doesn’t Understand What Sindoor Means”: Anti-Sterlite ‘Activist’ Nityanand Jayaraman Mocks Operation Sindoor As ‘Bollywood Drama’, Suffers Meltdown As India Retaliates Against Pakistan

By
The Commune
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nityanand jayaraman operation sindoor

So-called ‘environmental activist’ Nityanand Jayaraman, known for orchestrating the disruptive anti-Sterlite protests that led to the shutdown of one of India’s major copper producers, is once again drawing fire—this time for mocking India’s military operation against terrorist camps in Pakistan.

Unable to digest the Indian government’s decisive and successful retaliation following the Pahalgam terror attack, Jayaraman took to social media to undermine and belittle the armed forces. In a sarcastic post, he wrote, “Operation Sindoor is officially Bollywood,” and followed it up by pinning a comment, “Reliance Industries wants the trademark.“

As if trivializing a precision military strike wasn’t enough, Jayaraman went on to post a preachy moral rant, suggesting India should stay calm even as terrorists kill innocents in Kashmir. He wrote, “I belong to the India that does not want war, that wants the schoolyard bullies from Pak and India to shut the f*** up, and that does not understand what in heavens sindoor means in the context of a testosterone rich discourse.“

These remarks have sparked outrage among netizens and patriots alike, especially at a time when the country stands united in grief and resolve. His statements are being slammed as tone-deaf, anti-national, and out of touch, particularly coming from someone who once led a movement that crippled domestic copper production—key to India’s strategic and industrial sustainability.

Nityanand Jayaraman

Nityanand Jayaraman is a self-styled environmental activist and the Chairperson of ‘The Other Media‘ (TOM), an NGO under scrutiny for alleged violations of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA). He played a key role in organizing the 2018 protests against Vedanta’s Sterlite copper plant in Thoothukudi, which led to its closure following police firing that killed 13 people. TOM, under his leadership, received foreign funding from Christian and European organizations, raising concerns about the nature of its activism. Critics allege that Jayaraman’s activism, funded by foreign church-backed entities, often disrupts development projects and promotes unrest under the guise of environmental justice. He has been accused of undermining institutions and encouraging anarchy through strategic media engagements and organized resistance.

Critics argue that individuals like Jayaraman represent a deeply problematic mindset. At a time of national crisis, such commentary isn’t just inappropriate—it’s dangerous.

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How India’s Own ‘Iron Dome’, Akashteer Air Defence System, Protected Us Fom Pakistani Missiles

By
The Commune
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Just hours after India carried out precision airstrikes under Operation Sindoor targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Pakistan launched a retaliatory aerial assault on Indian territory. The coordinated strike targeted at least 15 locations across northern and western India, including Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Bathinda, and Chandigarh.

India swiftly activated its multi-layered air defence systems to neutralise the threat. Among the key defence mechanisms employed were the indigenously developed Akashteer system—hailed as India’s equivalent of Israel’s Iron Dome—and the Russian-built S-400 Triumf system, dubbed Sudarshan Chakra by the Indian Air Force.

According to defence officials, the attempted Pakistani attack involved a combination of drones and missiles launched towards key civilian and military infrastructure. The Indian Air Force and Army air defence units responded in real time, using the Akashteer-S-400 combo to intercept and destroy all incoming projectiles. No damage or casualties were reported, marking a significant validation of India’s air defence preparedness.

What Is Akashteer?

The Akashteer Air Defence Control and Reporting System (ADCRS) is a next-generation platform developed by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) for the Indian Army. It digitises air defence command and control functions to ensure seamless detection, tracking, and interception of aerial threats.

The system is being touted as India’s answer to Israel’s Iron Dome due to its automated, decentralised capabilities and rapid response time—features that were fully leveraged during the Pakistani strike.

Key Features Of Akashteer System

  • Sensor Fusion for a Unified Air Picture: Akashteer integrates data from Indian Army and Air Force sensors—including 3D tactical radars, low-level lightweight radars, and Akash weapon systems—to create a real-time, multi-dimensional airspace view. This live data is accessible down to the lowest operational units.
  • Fully Automated Engagement: One of Akashteer’s most critical features is its elimination of manual data entry. Automated tracking and response mechanisms ensure that threats are dealt with in real time, crucial when defending against high-speed aerial attacks.
  • Decentralised Authority: By allowing frontline units to independently make engagement decisions, Akashteer significantly reduces response time. This feature is vital in sensitive zones along India’s northern and eastern borders, where immediate retaliation is often necessary.
  • Redundancy and Scalability: Built-in communication redundancy ensures uninterrupted operation even in hostile electronic environments. The system is also future-ready, with both software and hardware scalability integrated into its design.
  • Flexible Deployment Models: Akashteer can be deployed via mobile platforms for offensive strike formations or through fixed installations for pivot formations. This flexibility allows India to tailor its air defence posture based on terrain and threat levels.

According to official data, out of the total 455 Akashteer units planned, 107 were delivered by November 2024. An additional 105 were on track for delivery by March 2025, with the remainder expected by March 2027. The induction is part of a broader plan to equip all key Indian Army formations with the latest in air defence technology.

Operation Sindoor

India’s response to the Pakistani attack has garnered global attention. Reports indicate that the United States has urged Pakistan to “de-escalate immediately” in light of the failed retaliation. Washington is reportedly monitoring the situation closely while reiterating its support for India’s right to self-defence.

The aerial retaliation follows India’s successful execution of Operation Sindoor—a retaliatory strike targeting terror camps operated by Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen across Pakistan and PoK. The Indian Defence Ministry described the mission as “focused, measured, and non-escalatory,” carried out entirely from Indian territory.

The dual use of Akashteer and S-400 systems in thwarting Pakistan’s attempted strike underlines India’s advanced defensive capabilities and growing technological self-reliance in national security.

(With inputs from MSN)

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Dravidianist Pakistani Sympathizing ‘Entrepreneur’ Questions India’s Action Pakistan; Deletes Social Media Accounts After Getting Roasted By Netizens

By
The Commune
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dravidianist pakistani sympathizer

Film critic and alleged journalist Logesh Balachandran has come under intense public criticism and reportedly deactivated all his social media accounts after posting a controversial video in which he appeared to question India’s military response to the Pahalgam terror attack. The video, seen by many as hypocritical and insensitive, drew sharp rebuke from netizens, who accused him of sympathizing with terrorists and undermining national sentiment.

On 22 April 2025, a horrifying terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, specifically targeting Hindu tourists, claimed 26 innocent lives. This massacre deeply shook the nation and was widely seen as a turning point in India’s policy on cross-border terrorism. In response, the Indian government launched a strategic military retaliation—‘Operation Sindoor’—a precision strike against key terror training camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Carried out at 1:44 AM on 7 May 2025, the coordinated strike involved the Army, Navy, and Air Force, targeting nine terrorist locations operated by banned groups Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), and Hizbul Mujahideen (HM). These operations were conducted entirely from Indian territory and were described by the Defence Ministry as “focused, measured, and non-escalatory,” carefully avoiding direct engagement with Pakistani military assets.

The precision military strikes targeted nine key terror locations linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen, all conducted from Indian territory. The operation was a resounding success.

But amid this moment of justice, a handful of Pakistani sympathizers and terror apologists emerged—those who are conveniently silent when terrorists slaughter innocent Indians but suddenly find their voice when India hits back. Logesh Balachandran was one of them. His patronizing message about “life and war” felt less like a call for peace and more like a veiled attempt to guilt-trip a grieving nation. Netizens weren’t having it—and rightly so. His video was slammed for its shameless double standards, and the fierce backlash forced him to disable all his social media accounts.

Sympathizing with human life is one thing. But preaching morality while terrorists butcher innocents and justifying their cause as “life is life” is pure hypocrisy – a typical Dravidianist trait. Standing up for human lives should never mean defending those who are prepared to take them. Giving such dangerous narratives a platform is irresponsible and disgraceful.

Dravidianist Speaks

In his now-deleted Instagram video, Logesh criticized the public for celebrating the military strike, saying, “What are you celebrating? What is there to celebrate? It was a terror attack, and the people in power have made a decision to seek revenge. That’s okay, but why are you celebrating? There is nothing to be proud of. We lost lives in Kashmir, and now they are seeking revenge, which will inevitably cost many more lives. Obviously, it’s a war. There are many innocent lives at stake. Is life only valuable if you die here, and not if you die there? No matter which country you go to, life is still life, right? We have our children and our families, and they have their loved ones, too. What did our parents teach us when we faced a problem? What would our parents say if someone attacked us? Would they tell us to go and destroy their family? No, right? Revenge is not a solution; war is not a solution. How can you all casually celebrate this? At least leave it to those in power. They will see it; just leave it to them. People are struggling to meet their daily needs; war is not the solution. Understand that only when our family is attacked is it considered an attack. Blood is blood, no matter who gets hurt. I don’t understand when you will realize that the world is one. I cannot tolerate the atrocities of celebrities who irresponsibly and insensitively say, ‘The mission is not completed; the mission will continue.’ What is all this? What are we going to do if the mission continues? Stop there! We have taken revenge for one attack. In this world, all are one.”

Many viewed his remarks as tone-deaf and poorly timed, especially coming in the wake of a national tragedy. While Logesh framed his comments as a plea for peace and universal humanity, critics argued that equating the Indian military’s response to terrorism with acts of aggression blurred the moral lines between aggressor and defender. His statement was also criticized for indirectly suggesting moral equivalence between civilian victims and terrorists sheltered across the border.

Following intense backlash on social media, with many calling him a “terror sympathizer” and “disconnected from ground reality,” Logesh removed his video and deleted his social media accounts. Netizens accused him of misplaced empathy and hypocrisy, pointing out that such moral sermons were conspicuously absent when Indian civilians were slaughtered in terror attacks.

While the Indian government and opposition parties largely stood united in supporting Operation Sindoor, voices like Logesh’s have sparked a debate on the line between peace advocacy and national solidarity in times of crisis.

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How PM Modi Defied US & Congress Pressure To Arm India With S-400 & Rafale, They’re Now India’s Shield In Operation Sindoor Against Pakistan

By
The Commune
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modi india s-400 rafale congress pakistan usa america operation sindoor

India’s recent military successes in Operation Sindoor and its ongoing conflict with Pakistan have underscored the critical role played by two key defence acquisitions—the Russian S-400 air defence system and the French Rafale jets armed with SCALP missiles. These systems, inducted under the Narendra Modi government despite fierce political and external pressure, have now proven their worth in combat, repelling a massive Pakistani drone and missile assault overnight.

This detailed analysis explores the multifaceted obstacles encountered by the Narendra Modi government in securing the Russian S-400 air defence system and the French Rafale fighter jets, both pivotal for India’s recent military successes in Operation Sindoor against Pakistan. The acquisitions, finalized despite significant external and domestic resistance, highlight India’s strategic autonomy and resilience in defence procurement.

Background And Context

India’s military modernization efforts have been driven by escalating threats from Pakistan and China, necessitating advanced air defence and fighter jet capabilities. The S-400, signed for $5 billion in 2018, and the Rafale deal, worth €7.8 billion for 36 jets in 2020, were critical to enhancing India’s defence posture. However, both deals faced a complex web of geopolitical, diplomatic, logistical, and domestic political hurdles, which the Modi government navigated with determination.

Obstacles In Acquiring The S-400 Air Defence System

The S-400 acquisition was marked by significant international and logistical challenges:

1. US Pressure and CAATSA Sanctions Threat: The US, under both Trump and Biden administrations, exerted considerable pressure to dissuade India from proceeding with the deal, citing concerns over interoperability with NATO systems and invoking the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA). Reports indicate the US warned of sanctions similar to those imposed on Turkey, with officials stating in 2021 that India was unlikely to receive a waiver. Despite this, India’s strategic role in the Indo-Pacific likely influenced the US to withhold sanctions, as noted in 2021 reports.

2. Delays Due to Russia-Ukraine War: Logistical challenges emerged with the onset of the Russia-Ukraine war, delaying deliveries. Initially, all five squadrons were expected by early 2024, but as of recent reports, the remaining two are now slated for 2026, impacting India’s defence readiness. This delay, attributed to Russia’s focus on its conflict, tested India’s patience but did not derail the deal.

3. Concerns Over System Capabilities: There were discussions about the S-400’s perceived outdated technology and actual capabilities, with some analyses suggesting it might not be the game-changer India anticipated. This raised internal debates within India’s defence establishment, adding to the complexity of the acquisition.

4. Diplomatic Balancing Act: India had to balance its growing ties with the US, particularly through the Quad and Indo-Pacific frameworks, while maintaining its traditional partnership with Russia. This diplomatic tightrope was evident in reports from 2022, where the US discouraged the deal but acknowledged geostrategic considerations.

Obstacles In Acquiring The Rafale Fighter Jets

The Rafale deal faced a different set of challenges, primarily domestic political and legal, with additional negotiation complexities:

1. Domestic Political Opposition: The Congress party, led by Rahul Gandhi, launched a fierce campaign against the deal, alleging corruption and favoritism. They claimed the per-aircraft cost had escalated from ₹715 crore to ₹1,600 crore under the UPA negotiations, labeling it a “scam” during the 2019 elections. The opposition criticized the selection of Anil Ambani’s Reliance Defence as the offset partner, suggesting crony capitalism, which fueled demands for a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe. This political noise threatened to derail the deal, creating public and parliamentary pressure.

2. Legal Challenges and Supreme Court Intervention: The allegations led to legal challenges, with petitions reaching the Supreme Court. In December 2018, the court dismissed all petitions, finding no evidence of wrongdoing, which was crucial in allowing the deal to proceed. This legal hurdle, while eventually cleared, added significant delay and scrutiny to the process.

3. Negotiation Complexities with France: The government-to-government deal involved intricate negotiations with Dassault Aviation. France resisted India’s demands for full technology transfer and customization, such as integrating indigenous weapons like the Astra missile, creating friction. Additionally, offset obligations, requiring Dassault to invest in Indian manufacturing, were contentious, with the Reliance Defence partnership drawing criticism. Reports from 2016 highlight the joint venture, Dassault Reliance Aerospace Limited (DRAL), as part of these obligations, adding to the negotiation burden.

4. Bureaucratic Delays and Pricing Disputes: India’s defence procurement process, known for red tape, delayed approvals and scrutiny from bodies like the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) over pricing transparency. The government defended the deal, emphasizing national security, but these bureaucratic hurdles prolonged the timeline.

The Congress’ Sins

The Congress party significantly obstructed the Modi government’s acquisition of 36 Rafale jets from France, a €7.8 billion deal signed in 2016 to bolster India’s air superiority. Their opposition, centered on allegations of corruption, favoritism, and procedural lapses, created political, legal, and public perception challenges, delaying the deal’s execution.

Congress leaders, led by Rahul Gandhi, alleged a price escalation from ₹715 crore to ₹1,600 crore per aircraft, labeling the deal a “scam” during the 2019 elections. They criticized the selection of Anil Ambani’s Reliance Defence as the offset partner over Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), accusing the government of crony capitalism. Claims of bypassing standard procurement processes, like approvals from the Defence Acquisitions Council, further fueled their narrative.

The party demanded a Joint Parliamentary Committee probe, met with the Central Vigilance Commission and Comptroller and Auditor General for investigations, and challenged the Supreme Court’s 2018 dismissal of petitions against the deal, even urging its recall. These actions kept the deal under intense scrutiny, diverting government resources to defend it and impacting public trust.

Congress’s campaign made Rafale a central 2019 election issue, delaying implementation as the government countered allegations across forums. Despite these hurdles, the Supreme Court’s clearance ensured the deal’s progress, and the Rafale jets proved their worth in Operation Sindoor by May 2025. Congress’s opposition, while not derailing the deal, significantly complicated its execution, forcing the government to navigate a prolonged political and legal battle to secure this critical defense asset.

PM Modi: A Tough Negotiator For A Reason

Despite these obstacles, the Modi government’s resolve ensured both deals were executed, enhancing India’s defence capabilities. The S-400’s debut in combat, as reported on May 07, 2025, showcased its effectiveness in thwarting Pakistani threats, validating the decision despite delays. Similarly, the Rafale’s precision strikes, such as the Bahawalpur operation, underscored its strategic value, silencing critics of the deal.

The successful navigation of these obstacles reflects India’s commitment to strategic autonomy, balancing relations with major powers like the US, Russia, and France while addressing domestic political dynamics. As of May 09, 2025, these acquisitions have proven their worth, with ongoing operations demonstrating their battlefield efficacy.

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“Operation Sindoor Must Not Fuel Hatred Against Indian Muslims”, Says VCK Chief Thirumavalavan

By
The Commune
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operation sindoor thirumavalavan indian muslim vck

Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) leader Thol. Thirumavalavan has stirred controversy with his recent statement following India’s military retaliation against Pakistan-based terrorists. While he expressed clear support for the Indian Army’s precision strikes, he also cautioned against allowing national anger to be misdirected towards Indian Muslims—a remark that has drawn sharp criticism.

On 22 April 2025, a horrific terrorist attack in the Pahalgam region of Jammu and Kashmir claimed the lives of 26 innocent tourists. The attack sent shockwaves throughout the nation. In response, India launched a coordinated tri-services military operation, codenamed ‘Operation Sindoor’, at 1:44 AM on 7 May 2025.

According to official reports, the operation targeted nine terrorist locations with pinpoint accuracy, resulting in the deaths of 26 militants and injuring over 60 others. Among the key targets was the main training camp of Jaish-e-Mohammed in Bhagalpur, where Indian forces struck the residence of the group’s leader, Masood Azad. The attack reportedly killed 10 members of his family.

The operation received broad support from across the political spectrum, including the key opposition Congress party. Thirumavalavan also voiced his backing through a public statement, saying, “VCK support our Army action The VCK expresses its support for the Indian Army’s targeted action against terrorist hideouts in Pakistan. We also reaffirm the imperative of sustained diplomatic engagement to prevent further escalation, safeguard regional peace, and work towards lasting political solutions. We urge the government to ensure that the resolve against Pakistan is not misdirected as hatred towards our own fellow citizens who follow Islam.”

While the VCK leader’s call for communal harmony aligns with constitutional values, critics argue that raising concerns about domestic religious tensions in the immediate aftermath of a cross-border counterterrorism strike amounts to unnecessary and divisive rhetoric. Some have accused Thirumavalavan of engaging in appeasement under the guise of secularism, particularly at a time when national unity is paramount.

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Supreme Court Declines To Halt Rohingya Deportation, Calls Them Foreigners & To Face Law Under Foreigners Act

By
The Commune
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supreme court rohingya foreigners deportation

The Supreme Court was informed on Thursday, 8 May 2025, that several Rohingya refugees, including women and children possessing United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) cards, were allegedly detained late Wednesday night and deported to Myanmar—just hours before their case was due to be heard.

Senior Advocates Colin Gonsalves and Prashant Bhushan, appearing for the petitioners, raised the issue based on media reports, claiming the deportations occurred under the pretext of “paper verification” from the detention centres where the refugees were held. They contended that this act constituted a grave violation of court proceedings and existing protections.

A three-judge bench comprising Justices Surya Kant, Dipankar Datta, and N. Kotiswar Singh expressed concern but refrained from issuing a stay on deportations. The matter has been listed for final hearing on 31 July 2025.

Justice Kant emphasized that the Court would resolve the matter conclusively: “If they have a right to stay here, that should be acknowledged; and if they don’t, then the procedure for deportation must be followed as per law.”

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Union government, referred to a Supreme Court order dated 8 April 2021, which permitted deportation of Rohingyas in accordance with legal procedure. He reiterated that India is not a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention and is therefore not bound by its provisions.

Bhushan, countering this, cited India’s obligations under the Genocide Convention—ratified by the country—and argued that the interim protections extended to Rohingya refugees should remain until a final verdict is delivered.

The Court, however, appeared divided on the scope of protection. Justice Datta pointed out that Rohingyas, being foreign nationals, fall under the ambit of the Foreigners Act, and cannot claim the right to reside or settle under Article 19(1)(e) of the Constitution. “The rights under Articles 14 and 21 are available to all persons, but the right not to be deported is ancillary to the right to reside, which is reserved for citizens,” he observed.

He also referenced a 2018 case involving the deportation of Rohingyas from Assam, noting that the Court had dismissed the plea, suggesting precedence for the government’s current position.

Gonsalves disagreed, stating the previous case involved migrants, not recognized refugees. He also invoked the NHRC v. State of Arunachal Pradesh judgment to stress the constitutional protection of life under Article 21, but the bench noted that decision was not binding on the current three-judge bench.

Concerns about deaths in detention centres were also raised during the hearing. However, the bench ultimately decided to rely on the 2021 order and hear the matter in full in July.

In related proceedings, the Court recently disposed of a petition seeking school admission for Rohingya refugee children in Delhi, directing that eligible children should first apply to local government schools and approach the High Court only if denied admission. Another similar petition seeking educational benefits was disposed of earlier in February, with the Court emphasizing that children’s right to education must not be denied, but only after determining the family’s legal residence status.

(With inputs from Live Law)

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Gujarat Port Fire, Jalandhar Drone Strike: Busting Pakistan’s Disinformation Campaigns And Claims

By
The Commune
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Several videos being circulated on the social media platform X claiming to show attacks by Pakistani forces have been debunked by the Press Information Bureau (PIB). In the latest, videos claiming to show Pakistani attacks on Hazira Port in Gujarat and a drone attack in Jalandhar have been termed fraudulent.

PIB said the video is an unrelated video “confirmed to depict an oil tanker explosion”. The video is dated July 7, 2021, said PIB on its Fact Check handle on X. The footage actually captures an oil tanker explosion that occurred on July 7, 2021, and Pakistan is falsely propagating it as its attack on the port. PIB fact-checkers confirmed that the video in question is not related to the ongoing military situation.

The video gained traction on social media, being reposted by several unauthenticated accounts, and claimed to show an explosion and destruction allegedly caused by a Pakistani strike. But the misleading content was promptly flagged by PIB’s fact-checking team, which is actively monitoring online narratives surrounding the conflict.

The PIB’s fact-checking unit, early Friday morning, swiftly debunked another widely circulating video on social media claiming to show the aftermath of a drone attack in Jalandhar. In a post on X, PIB fact-check clarified that the video is unrelated and depicts a farm fire.

PIB’s tweet stated, “Drone Attack in Jalandhar. This drone strike video from #Jalandhar is widely circulating on social media#PIBFactCheck This is an unrelated video of a farm fire. The video has the time 7:39 PM, while the drone attack began later.”

After India launched its most expansive cross-border strikes on terror bases in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Pakistan, a flood of misinformation and false propaganda is being peddled from across the border by its influencers, media, as well as government-sponsored social media handles. Several such videos have already been exposed by the team of the PIB since India’s military action against terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir began on May 7.

PIB has urged citizens to exercise caution and verify information before sharing it online. “In times of heightened national security, misinformation can lead to unnecessary panic and confusion. Always rely on official sources for updates,” a PIB spokesperson stated. The government has reiterated that disinformation campaigns, especially those involving doctored or unrelated media, pose a threat not only to public understanding but also to national morale.

The government officials have repeatedly told social media users that spreading false information, knowingly or unknowingly, may invite legal consequences under India’s cyber laws. As ‘Operation Sindoor’ continues to unfold further with Indian Air Force strikes against Pakistan’s air defence system, the PIB and the Indian Armed Forces continue to stress the importance of verified information.

–IANS

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