“Chhattisgarh Deputy CM Slams Charanjit Singh Channi Over Comments on Balakot Airstrike”

Chhattisgarh’s Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao criticized former Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi for questioning the 2019 Balakot airstrike and demanding proof. Sao accused the Congress party of undermining the morale of India’s security forces and disrespecting the bravery of the armed forces.

Sao stated, “This reflects the mindset of Congress leaders who consistently attempt to bring down the morale of our security forces. Their actions and intentions are not in the right direction.” He also emphasized that the Indian government’s response, following the Pahalgam terrorist attack in which 26 people lost their lives, was both historic and revolutionary, with the clear intention to teach Pakistan a lesson for the attack.

Sao highlighted the clarity of the government’s approach, saying, “The government’s policy is crystal clear: we will not hesitate to eliminate terrorists, as stated by the Union Home Minister.”

Meanwhile, BJP leader CR Kesavan also criticized Channi for casting doubts on the surgical strikes carried out by Indian forces in 2019 in retaliation for the Pulwama terror attack, which killed 40 CRPF jawans. Kesavan accused Channi of questioning the patriotism of the armed forces, stating, “Congress’s claims of sympathizing with terror victims are a complete lie.”

Kesavan also took issue with Channi’s remarks, claiming that the Congress was deliberately attempting to diminish the morale of India’s security forces during a time of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan.

This controversy ignited when Channi demanded proof of the surgical strikes in Pakistan territory, suggesting that no evidence of such operations existed. Channi remarked, “I have always asked for proof of the surgical strikes. Where did these attacks happen in Pakistan, and why was there no acknowledgment?”

Channi further added that the government must take action against the perpetrators of the Pahalgam terrorist attack, urging for answers and justice for the victims.

The exchange of sharp statements between political leaders highlights the ongoing political divide and debate over the actions and responses to national security issues.