In a recent statement, veteran Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar has stirred controversy by suggesting that India should “respect” Pakistan due to its possession of nuclear weapons. Aiyar’s remarks have ignited a fierce backlash, particularly from members of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Aiyar’s statement has drawn sharp criticism from BJP’s Shehzad Poonawalla, who accused the Congress of harboring affection for Pakistan. Poonawalla referenced Aiyar’s previous interactions with Pakistan, alleging a history of Congress leaders extending olive branches to the neighboring country.
“This is all because Pakistan has been continuously tweeting in support of Congress. So this thought is not just of Mani Shankar Aiyar, but the entire Congress. This is simply an experiment for vote bank amid ongoing polls,” Poonawalla remarked, reflecting on what he perceives as Congress’ strategic alignment with Pakistan for electoral gains.
Furthermore, BJP MP Ravi Kishan condemned Aiyar’s remarks, questioning his sanity and emphasizing India’s current stature under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. Kishan asserted that Aiyar’s sentiments are outdated and do not reflect the prevailing strength and determination of India.
Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar, contesting against Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, also weighed in, highlighting what he sees as the ideological stance of Rahul Gandhi’s Congress. Chandrasekhar emphasized the significance of the ongoing elections, suggesting that support from Pakistan and proposals like giving up Siachen demonstrate the underlying principles of the Congress party.
A video circulating on social media captured Aiyar’s controversial remarks, wherein he purportedly argued for India to acknowledge Pakistan’s nuclear capabilities to avoid potential escalations. Aiyar’s warning about the grave consequences of disregarding Pakistan’s military capabilities has intensified the ongoing debate about India’s strategic stance towards its neighbor. Aiyar’s comments have surfaced amidst recent statements from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who asserted India’s willingness to pursue aggressive actions against cross-border threats.
