Rajnath dismisses Congress claim of six surgical strikes

GURUGRAM: Union home minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday launched an scathing attack on Congress over its claim of six surgical strikes during the UPA rule, saying an RTI query has revealed that first such operation was carried out in 2016 under the prime ministership of Narendra Modi.


“According to an RTI, the first surgical strike happened in 2016,” he said, addressing a rally here. “They say we also did surgical strikes. Who stopped you from announcing these? Do you feel ashamed of praising the armed forces? Why you did not tell this to the people of India. Is the government not answerable?” the BJP leader said.

Earlier, Congress leader Rajiv Shukla had claimed that six surgical strikes were conducted during former PM Manmohan Singh’s tenure.

Rajnath also reiterated that if BJP comes to power, it will strengthen the sedition law. He was addressing a rally in Bhondsi in support of BJP candidate Rao Inderjit Singh.

He added, “Congress is working against the nation by saying it will do away with the sedition law... people breaking the nation should be dealt with utmost strictness.” He also criticised Congress for asking the count of causalities in Balakot air strike. “The opposition is claiming it is the Indian Army’s victory and not Modi’s. But with that logic, India’s victory in 1971 is also the army’s victory, and not Indira Gandhi’s.”

Elections 2025 mark a pivotal year for democratic processes across various regions in India and globally. This includes key state assembly elections, local body polls, and by-elections that could significantly impact national-level politics. Get real-time updates, important dates, voting procedures, and verified news — all in one place. Whether you're tracking results or exploring candidate profiles, this is your go-to hub for Elections 2025.