Jaishankar Clarifies Operation Sindoor Remark Amid Criticism
The clarification by the MEA and the fact-check unit has attempted to put the controversy to rest, but the debate surrounding the government's foreign policy and the effectiveness of Operation Sindoor continues, with many calling for a more nuanced approach to dealing with neighboring countries.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's statement about warning Pakistan during Operation Sindoor has sparked controversy, with the government clarifying that his remarks were misquoted, and he did not inform Pakistan before the operation began.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that Jaishankar warned Pakistan at the early phase after the operation's commencement, not before it, contrary to allegations made by Rahul Gandhi. The Press Information Bureau's fact-check unit supported MEA's statement, saying Jaishankar was misquoted. Gandhi had claimed that Jaishankar informed Pakistan ahead of the operation, which he termed as a "crime".
Critics argue that alerting Pakistan could have allowed it to mobilize its air defense systems and safeguard high-value targets, diminishing the operation's effectiveness. The Congress party has called Jaishankar "not worthy of staying as external affairs minister." Jaishankar defended the decision, stating that India gave Pakistan the option to remain a silent bystander but chose to intervene. Pakistan's armed forces successfully defended their airspace and shot down five Indian fighter jets during the operation.
The controversy has led to a reevaluation of the government's foreign policy, with analysts suggesting that it is driven by arrogance and demands a reassessment. The incident has sparked a heated debate, with the opposition and analysts questioning the decision to warn Pakistan, while the government maintains that its actions were justified.