Tue May 13 13:45:25 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**India’s Ruling Party Accused of Exploiting Pahalgam Attack for Political Gain, Stoking War Fervor**

New Delhi – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government is facing criticism for allegedly capitalizing on the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack in Kashmir to incite war-like sentiment and bolster its political support base. Critics argue that the government’s actions, particularly the launch of “Operation Sindoor” and the subsequent crackdown on dissent, are undermining Indian democracy.

Following the April 22 attack in Pahalgam, which resulted in multiple casualties, the BJP swiftly adopted a hard-line stance, with some members calling for revenge and engaging in anti-Muslim rhetoric, according to reports. This response contrasted sharply with appeals for peace and unity from some victims of the attack.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent address, in which he stated that “Operation Sindoor” was merely “paused” and not ended, has been interpreted by some as a sign that the government intends to maintain a state of perpetual war.

“Modi’s speech was clearly not meant to reassure the Indian people that the government can guarantee their safety or security and is seeking peace and stability. Instead, it was meant to warn that the country is now in a permanent warlike situation.”

The government’s actions have also been criticized for stifling dissent and targeting minority communities. Reports indicate that numerous Muslims have been subjected to hate crimes and discrimination since the Pahalgam attack. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the blocking of social media accounts belonging to journalists and critics of the government.

The sudden announcement of a ceasefire brokered by the United States reportedly caught the BJP’s support base off guard, leading to criticism and even abuse directed at government officials involved in the decision.

Critics argue that the BJP’s focus on maintaining a state of war is detrimental to Indian democracy. They contend that it stifles dialogue, marginalizes minority communities, and allows the government to deflect blame for its own shortcomings.

“Democracy in India thus remains in suspended animation as the country now faces a permanent enemy and a permanent war.”

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