Congress Leaders’ Controversial Remarks on Pahalgam Attack Draw Sharp BJP Criticism

 Amid escalating national outrage over the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 tourists, former Union Minister and senior Congress leader Saifuddin Soz has become the latest focus of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticism following his controversial remarks regarding Pakistan.

As the country mourns the brutal attack, statements from several Congress leaders have intensified political tensions, with the BJP accusing the party of shielding terrorists and offering a "clean chit" to Pakistan. Reacting to India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan, Soz emphasized the importance of the water resources to Pakistan and warned of severe consequences for Jammu and Kashmir if waters are not adequately diverted.

“The Indus Water Treaty has survived the wars between India and Pakistan. This water treaty is a lifeline for Pakistan. If Pakistan takes a stand that they are not involved in the Pahalgam attack, then we should accept Pakistan’s word," Soz told news agency PTI.

His remarks echoed recent comments by Karnataka Minister Santosh Lad, who similarly questioned the Centre’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, stating, “Shouldn’t Pakistanis have water, don’t they drink water?”

VIDEO | Here is what former Union Minister Saifuddin Soz says on the Indus Water Treaty: “For Pakistan the water is very important for irrigation and drinking purposes. If the river water cannot be diverted the state of Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir will be totally submerged. The… pic.twitter.com/TZWPEtWNhA

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) April 28, 2025

Soz Backtracks Amid Political Firestorm

BJP leaders reacted sharply. Amit Malviya, head of the BJP’s IT Cell, lambasted Soz’s comments, accusing him of advocating for Pakistan despite evidence implicating it in the massacre. “He has most certainly exceeded even the expectations of the Pakistani deep state with such brazen advocacy,” Malviya remarked.

Following the backlash, Soz sought to clarify his position, stating that his comments had been misunderstood. Speaking to CNN-News18, he said, “I did not say Pakistan should be believed… I said ultimately, we have to sort out matters with discussion and dialogue… my stand cannot be different from that of the PM."

BJP Intensifies Attack on Congress

The BJP has continued to scrutinize statements from Congress leaders, arguing they mirror Pakistan's narrative. “Is anyone really surprised that Congress and Pakistan are speaking the same language?" Malviya said in a separate post.

The controversy was fueled further after businessman Robert Vadra, husband of Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, blamed "Hindutva" for the attack. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also stirred debate by asserting there was "no need for war with Pakistan" and that India should instead "beef up security," attributing the attack to an "intelligence failure." His remarks were prominently reported in Pakistani media.

Adding to the uproar, senior Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar described the Pahalgam tragedy as a reflection of the "unresolved questions of Partition," igniting fresh criticism.

Meanwhile, Karnataka Excise Minister R.B. Timmapur sparked outrage by dismissing survivor testimonies and stating that terrorists "could not have asked their religion" before shooting. Referring to the wife of Shivamogga victim Manjunath, he controversially added that Pallavi "might have lost a bit of control."

Congress MLA Vijay Wadettiwar echoed Timmapur’s sentiments, questioning whether terrorists would have the time to ask victims’ religions. “Some people say that this did not happen. Terrorists have no caste or religion. Catch those who are responsible and take action," Wadettiwar said.

As the political storm intensifies, the BJP continues to highlight what it sees as a pattern of Congress leaders making statements that weaken India's position and embolden adversaries at a time of national crisis.