A warning from Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif about a potential strike on Kolkata in response to any future actions by India has stirred up reactions across India’s political landscape. Asif, speaking in Sialkot, mentioned that Islamabad would target Kolkata if India engages in what he termed as another “false-flag operation,” escalating tensions with his statement.
The remarks by Asif drew criticism from various Indian leaders, with Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Jagdambika Pal highlighting Pakistan’s economic challenges and governance issues, suggesting that such statements were a diversion tactic. Pal pointed out the economic hardships faced by people in Pakistan, including soaring fuel prices and financial struggles of the government.
In a similar vein, senior BJP leader T.R. Sriniwas strongly condemned Asif’s comments and warned against cross-border terror activities. He emphasized India’s readiness to respond decisively if provoked, mentioning the potential for a robust countermeasure, ‘Operation SINDOOR-2,’ against terrorism.
Meanwhile, senior advocate and former MP Majeed Memon stressed the importance of diplomatic restraint, urging Pakistan to maintain peaceful and constructive relations with India. Memon emphasized that provocative statements about attacking India were inappropriate and called for responsible behavior from Pakistan’s leadership.
Congress leader Nana Patole raised concerns about the timing and context of the Pakistani Defence Minister’s statement, linking it to ongoing political events, particularly in West Bengal during the election season. Patole questioned the motives behind amplifying such remarks at this specific time and location, suggesting a deliberate attempt to influence the electoral process.
