New Delhi: In a fiery address to the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah strongly defended the government’s counter-terror operations—Operation Sindoor and Operation Mahadev—while launching a scathing attack on the opposition for allegedly questioning the authenticity of Pakistan’s involvement in recent terror activities.
Shah confidently took center stage, declaring that the government had acted decisively against cross-border terrorism and would not tolerate any attempts to shield Pakistan. He accused the opposition, especially Congress leader and former Home Minister P. Chidambaram, of playing into the hands of the enemy by demanding evidence of Pakistani involvement in the Pahalgam terrorist attack.
“Those who try to protect Pakistan will not be spared,” Shah said forcefully, referring to the recent remarks by Chidambaram. “When terrorists kill our citizens and our forces eliminate them, instead of standing with the country, some leaders raise doubts and ask for proof. What message are you sending to the world?”
Operation Sindoor: Swift and Decisive Action
Elaborating on Operation Sindoor, Shah revealed that in a highly coordinated effort, Indian forces destroyed nine terrorist hideouts in just 20 minutes, penetrating 100 kilometers inside terrorist-controlled territory. The operation, he said, was a response to the recent Pahalgam attack and was executed with clinical precision by the Indian Army.
“This was not a random retaliation. We had concrete intelligence, and within minutes, we hit nine crucial hideouts. Our jawans went deep, 100 kilometers in, and came out victorious,” he stated, drawing applause from treasury benches.
Operation Mahadev: Three Top Terrorists Eliminated
Amit Shah also informed the House about another successful mission, Operation Mahadev, conducted a day earlier. The joint operation by the Indian Army, CRPF, and Kashmir Police resulted in the neutralization of three top terrorists: Suleman, Afran, and Jibran.
He emphasized that Suleman was a senior commander of the Lashkar-e-Taiba and was directly involved in both the Pahalgam and Gaganveer attacks. The other two, Afran and Jibran, were classified as ‘A-grade terrorists’.
“Let it be clear—these were the same men who took innocent lives in Barsan Valley. And today, all three have been eliminated. This is a message to every enemy of India: We will track you down, wherever you hide.”
Opposition Faces Flak for “Silence” on Terror Neutralization
While the Home Minister laid out these facts, he took strong exception to the behavior of opposition leaders, especially Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, who attempted to interject during his speech.
“I was expecting a moment of unity in the House. When our forces kill terrorists, everyone should be proud. But I saw gloom on the faces of opposition members,” Shah remarked. “What kind of politics is this? Are you upset because of the religion of the terrorists?”
When Akhilesh Yadav stood up to respond, Shah firmly told him to sit and listen. “Akhilesh ji, please listen first. You’ll understand better. Don’t be saddened just because the terrorists belonged to a particular religion.”
Shah’s sharp rebuke caused visible unease among opposition ranks. He expressed disappointment that political differences were being placed above national security, and condemned leaders who, according to him, were echoing Pakistani narratives.
“Why Demand Proof Now?” Shah Questions Chidambaram
Directing his strongest criticism at P. Chidambaram, Shah questioned why the Congress veteran had chosen to raise doubts about the origin of the Pahalgam terrorists when a parliamentary debate was scheduled.
“Chidambaram ji asked what proof we have that the terrorists came from Pakistan. Why did you not ask this when you were in power and Mumbai was under siege? Now, when our forces have acted, you want proof?”
He further added that two of the three terrorists had Pakistani voter ID numbers, and their weapons and food supplies—chocolates included—were manufactured in Pakistan.
“We have the evidence—voter records, rifles, and even snack wrappers all made in Pakistan. But still, you say they are not Pakistanis? Are you giving a clean chit to Pakistan as a former Home Minister?”
Shah claimed that such statements undermine the credibility of India’s security apparatus on international platforms. “While our MPs are explaining India’s position to the world, your former ministers are demanding proof on television. Why didn’t you ask us directly? If you had, we would’ve shown it to you.”
Government Asserts Strong Stand on National Security
The Home Minister concluded his speech by reiterating that India would continue to adopt a zero-tolerance approach toward terrorism. He praised the armed forces for their bravery and discipline in both operations, and reassured the House that the security of citizens remains the government’s top priority.
“We are not here to please anyone or seek votes through fear. We are here to ensure that not a single life is lost to terror. The opposition may keep asking questions, but we will keep answering with action.”
With Amit Shah’s passionate and detailed response, the government appeared confident in its security strategy, while the opposition struggled to counter the strong nationalist sentiment in the House. The debate is expected to continue as the Monsoon Session progresses, but Tuesday’s address has already sent a clear message—India will hit back, and political ambiguity over terrorism will not be entertained.
