On 21 May 2025, Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar gave ammo to Pakistan by questioning the Modi government regarding potential casualties or damage sustained by Indian forces following the border escalation that ensued after the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam.
Addressing a press conference, Wadettiwar noted that “doubts are emerging” over whether Indian troops suffered any losses during the exchange. He referenced unconfirmed reports claiming that Pakistan deployed thousands of inexpensive, Chinese-manufactured drones, prompting India to retaliate with highly expensive missile systems.
“There are discussions that they (Pakistan) launched 5,000 China-made drones and the value of each drone was ₹15,000. To destroy each drone worth ₹15,000, we launched missiles worth ₹15 lakhs. This was a part of China’s tactic…There are also discussions that our 3-4 Rafale jets were shot down…The government should give a clarification,” he remarked.
Wadettiwar went on to allege that India’s decision to halt military action was influenced by pressure from the United States. He also questioned whether there were any significant losses on the Indian side, such as damage to Rafale fighter jets.
“Why is it wrong to ask these questions in a democracy?” he said. “Was there any loss? Were any of our Rafale jets hit? How many soldiers were injured? If the Pakistani soldier in our custody was returned and we stopped the operation based on U.S. instructions, the public has a right to know.”
#WATCH | Nagpur | Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar says, "…There are discussions that they (Pakistan) launched 5,000 China-made drones and the value of each drone was Rs 15,000. To destroy each drone worth Rs 15,000, we launched missiles worth Rs 15 lakhs. This was a part of… pic.twitter.com/M9l4NEqW1p
— ANI (@ANI) May 21, 2025
The Congress leader demanded that the Centre be forthcoming about the outcome of Operation Sindoor, launched on 7 May in response to the Pahalgam terror strike which killed 26. The operation targeted terrorist facilities in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoK), reportedly eliminating nearly 100 militants and severely damaging key terror infrastructure.
Despite India’s success in neutralising threats, Wadettiwar insisted that any possible setbacks should also be shared openly with the public. “There are rumors that three or four Rafale jets were brought down. The government should issue a clear statement denying these claims and confirming the benefits of Operation Sindoor.”
He further criticised the BJP-led Centre for what he called a performative celebration. “This is the first time I’ve seen a victory rally right after a war. The public is left with many questions. There’s growing skepticism about this government’s narrative,” he concluded.
Though hostilities ceased on 10 May after a mutual agreement between Indian and Pakistani military officials, the Opposition continues to press the government for greater accountability and transparency.
(With Inputs From ANI)
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