Sat May 03 04:24:25 UTC 2025: ## Congress Leader Sparks Controversy Over Questioning Surgical Strikes, Later Retracts

**New Delhi, May 3, 2025** – Congress leader Charanjit Singh Channi ignited a political firestorm on Friday by questioning the veracity of India’s surgical strikes against Pakistan following the 2019 Pulwama terror attack. His comments, made at a press conference after a Congress Working Committee meeting, drew sharp criticism from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Channi initially questioned the lack of visible evidence of the surgical strikes, stating that “nobody saw it” and that the government’s subsequent actions, such as visa cancellations and potential Indus Waters Treaty suspension, were insufficient. He also criticized the government’s response to the recent Pahalgam terror attack, demanding swifter action against Pakistan. He used the phrase “56-inch chest,” a common jab at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to highlight the perceived lack of decisive action.

The BJP swiftly condemned Channi’s remarks, with spokesperson C.R. Kesavan highlighting Channi’s previous criticism of military actions. Kesavan accused Channi of insulting the armed forces.

Facing intense backlash, Channi backtracked, stating that he wasn’t seeking proof of the surgical strikes and that the Congress fully supported the government’s actions against Pakistan. He emphasized the party’s commitment to justice for the victims of both the Pulwama and Pahalgam attacks.

The controversy comes amidst heightened tensions following the April 22nd Pahalgam attack, which killed 26 people, mostly tourists. The incident has spurred calls for stronger action against Pakistan, adding further fuel to the already charged political climate. The debate surrounding the surgical strikes and the government’s response continues to dominate the national conversation.

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