Channi’s Doubts on Surgeical Strikes Stir Row

During a Congress Working Committee meeting, while party chief Mallikarjun Kharge backed the government’s stand against the Pahalgam terror attack, Charanjit Singh Channi stirred controversy by questioning the 2019 surgical strikes post-Pulwama. He criticized the government’s inaction ten days after the attack and demanded swift retaliation, saying symbolic steps like visa cancellation were ineffective.

Channi reignited past debates by doubting the authenticity of the surgical strikes, stating no evidence was ever shown. The BJP strongly criticized his remarks, accusing the Congress of repeatedly insulting the armed forces. BJP spokesperson CR Kesavan referenced Channi’s past insensitive comment during the 2024 Poonch attack and condemned his current statements.

Later, facing backlash, Channi retracted his demand for proof, clarifying that the Congress stands firmly with the government in this crisis. He emphasized that their priority is justice for victims and national unity, not questioning military action.